SYSTEMATIC CRASH INVESTIGATION

The potential for reducing crash losses through modification of the road environment is substantial. That potential can be approached by providing those responsible for building, maintaining and operating the road networks with the means for systematically reviewing the road safety problems of their areas. Countermeasures for the various problems can then be selected and listed for possible implementation, in order of benefit-cost ratios. Subsequent monitoring enables checking of the efficacy of the countermeasures implemented. Systematic crash investigation can produce the most cost-effective countermeasures. These countermeasures can include behavioural and vehicle issues, as well as the road environment. Pilot studies were undertaken at four NSW Roads and Traffic Authority offices. Each study aimed at developing countermeasures to a particular locally identified road safety problem, and to demonstrate the value of a systematic approach to crash investigation. Each study involved analysis of the RTA's mass database of crash information. Supplementary data were gathered and analysed in different ways in the individual studies.The studies were undertaken by local RTA staff with specialist assistance from RTA Road Safety Bureau staff and consultants. Local staff were responsible for the mass data analysis, field work and countermeasure development. The pilot studies were undertaken to observe the various processes and techniques used, and to determine their advantages and disadvantages. The information would then be used in determining the final design of a statewide crash investigation and prevention program. The paper describes details of the pilot program, and the changes needed to enable the statewide program to be implemented. Deficiencies in the existing systems for identifying and disseminating information on crashes are described, as are some solutions Examples are the current inadequacies in displaying crash data by location, to be addressed by using Geographic Information Systems and digitised maps; improving the currently poor access to Policy reports, by using Compact Disc ROM technology. (A) For the covering entry of this conference, see IRRD abstract no. 843369.