Intersection characteristics that influence collision severity and cost

Area of Science:

• Transportation Engineering
• Traffic Safety
• Data Analysis

Background:

• Current traffic signal warrant systems inadequately address motor-vehicle collision severity and prediction.
• Traffic engineers need improved tools for effective decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To generate reliable collision costs for enhanced traffic signal warrants.
• To account for variations in collision severity based on intersection characteristics.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from NASS Crashworthiness Data System, NASS General Estimates System, and Fatality Accident Reporting System.
• Employed generalized ordered logit models to identify significant intersection characteristics.
• Segregated data to determine collision severity profiles and average costs.

Main Results:

• Collisions at signalized intersections are less severe on average than at stop-controlled intersections.
• Posted speed limit, urban/rural setting, and divided approaches significantly influence collision severity.
• Developed collision cost estimates based on these key characteristics.

Conclusions:

• Intersection characteristics like speed limit and road design significantly affect collision severity.
• The derived collision costs provide a robust foundation for justifying traffic control changes.
• This research offers practical applications for traffic engineers to improve intersection safety.