ANALYSIS OF TRAFFIC CONFLICTS AND COLLISIONS

Abstract

Parameters intrinsic to the sequence of events leading to vehicle collisions and traffic conflicts are investigated in an attempt to develop a more practical and reliable application of the traffic conflicts technique. Sequences of collisions and conflict events were videotaped and are analyzed in detail. Preliminary investigations reveal that using the common method of brake application is not adequate for describing conflict. As a result, seven methods of defining a conflict situation are introduced and evaluated. It is concluded that at least two of the proposed methods will provide a practical investigative tool that explains accident occurrence better than brake application. /Author/