What drivers do while speeding: examining the associations between speeding and driver distraction through the Enhanced Crash Investigation Study protocol [Abstract]

This paper represents an exploratory analysis to assess the feasibility of assessing the relationship between driver speed and engagement in potentially distracting behaviours. Control data from the ECIS project are examined. These data include both objective speed measurements recorded via laser camera positioned at ECIS case-vehicle crash locations as well as retrospective self-reported driving behaviours from drivers recorded at these sites. Exploratory analysis suggests that the activities reported by drivers with recorded speeds above the limit may differ from the activities reported by those recorded on or below the limit

The MUARC-TAC enhanced crash investigation study: study update, analysis of crash types and contributing factors [Abstract]

This paper presents an update of the Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC) – Transport Accident Commission (TAC) Enhanced Crash Investigation Study (ECIS) as well as an exploration of the characteristics of injured drivers, crash types and factors implicated in crash occurrence. Three configurations are of particularly high frequency and severity, whilst crashes involving young and older drivers are different in nature and have different contributing factors. Fatigue, driver error, and pre-crash driver blackouts due to medical conditions were prominent contributing factors. Injury severity would be significantly lower in 32% of cases if either front or side airbags were fitted. The findings point to key risk factors that can be addressed in road safety strategies

The MUARC-TAC enhanced crash investigation study: a platform to understand the causes and consequences of serious injury crashes.

Background: In recognising the consequences of serious injury crashes, the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) commissioned Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC) to undertake the Enhanced Crash Investigation Study (ECIS). This paper describes the program components, seven key research questions and technical innovations used in the study. We describe the information collected and outline a ‘Safe Systems Failure Analysis’ used for each case. Project Method: Participants in ECIS include drivers aged 18 years and older seriously injured in crashes on public Victorian roads. Drivers are recruited whilst inpatients at a major trauma hospital and where possible interviews conducted. The ECIS team inspects their crashed vehicle and critically analyses the crash environment. Event Data Recorder (EDR, black-box) data is acquired from vehicles where possible and crash reconstructions are undertaken. Each case is submitted to an internal panel review with a sub-sample of cases presented to external panels throughout Victoria. This process leads to each case being submitted to a Safe Systems Failure Analysis where contributing factors and countermeasures are identified by a broad group of stakeholders. The ECIS control arm permits examination of the relationship between certain factors, such as speed and crash occurrence. Results and Discussion: In addition to describing the study, we provide an example of how the identification of crash factors, using a Safe Systems paradigm based on real-world serious injury crashes, can lead to the identification of targeted countermeasures, each with an identified policy action. Implications: This paper will demonstrate a method for creating a robust evidence base upon which government road safety policy can be built. By scaling up individual crash findings to the broader crash population, countermeasures and associated policy actions can be appropriately prioritised

Enhanced crash investigation study report 3 - Understanding contributing factors for serious injury crashes using crash chain analysis

This report aims to highlight key safety gaps and trauma risk in the road transport system in Victoria that lead to serious injury. The focus of the report is two-fold: 1. identifying factors associated with serious injury crashes occurring, and 2. identifying factors associated with serious injury, given that a crash occurs. Analysis is presented by crash type using a road trauma ‘integrated safety chain’ model developed during the ECIS program. The Report sets the basis for ECIS Report 4. </p

Enhanced crash investigation study report number 4 - Identification of countermeasures to address serious injury crashes

This report identifies interventions and actions aimed at reducing the incidence of serious injury sustained in crashes in Victoria. Interventions are focussed on short-to-medium term actions, as well as setting a path towards the longer-term vision of creating an inherently safe road transport system. Countermeasures are presented across the phases of the crash, from before a driver enters a vehicle through to recovery from injuries sustained in the crash. This analysis highlights where, and by what means, reductions in serious injury can be achieved. </p

Enhanced crash investigation study report 2 - Speed crash risk and injury severity

This report examines the role of speed in shaping crash risk and injury severity. The report examines five key questions: 1. The relationship between the speed limit and travel speed; 2. The relationship between travel speed and the risk of involvement in a crash that results in one or more involved drivers being hospitalised; 3. The relationship between travel speed and vehicle speed at impact, the frequency of  pre-crash avoidance actions and the effect, if any, of these actions on the speed of the vehicle at impact; 4. The relationship between impact speed and injury severity, and 5) The injury reduction benefit of lower impact speeds. A case series approach was used to illustrate the potential benefits of reduced travel speed, speed limit compliance and impact speed on crash and injury severity outcomes. Key inputs to this analysis are the estimates of travel speed and impact speed obtained through the crash reconstruction process and the ‘free travel speed’ data obtained from ECIS Control Study drivers. The Report presents practical examples of the effect of reducing travel speed on crash outcomes using crash reconstruction methods.</p

Enhanced crash investigation study - Report 1; overview and analysis of crash types, injury outcomes and contributing factors

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