Comparison of Factors Associated With Run-Off-Road and Non-Run-Off-Road Crashes in Kansas

Roy, Uttara; Dissanayake, Sunanda · 2012 · OpenAlex-citations

DOI: 10.5399/osu/jtrf.50.2.2731

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Summary

This study investigates the trends, characteristics, and contributory causes of run-off-road (ROR) crashes compared to non-run-off-road (NROR) crashes in Kansas. Motivated by the high societal cost and severity of ROR incidents, which account for approximately one-third of U.S. traffic fatalities and 55% of fatal or serious injury crashes in Kansas, the research aims to identify specific factors that disproportionately contribute to ROR events. The authors seek to inform the development of targeted countermeasures by distinguishing the unique risk profiles of ROR crashes from general traffic collisions. The analysis utilizes ten years of police-reported crash data (1999–2008) from the Kansas Accident Reporting System (KARS), encompassing 167,977 ROR and 565,896 NROR crashes. Trend analysis covered the full decade, while comparative factor analysis focused on a five-year subset (2004–2008) to account for changes in vehicle fleets and driver populations. The study employs a Bayesian statistical approach to calculate likelihood ratios, comparing the conditional probability of specific contributory causes in ROR crashes against NROR crashes. A likelihood ratio greater than one indicates a cause is more predominant in ROR incidents. The results reveal distinct differences in crash characteristics and causes. ROR crashes are more likely to occur during nighttime, weekends, and in rural areas, particularly on curved, gravel, or icy roads with higher speed limits. Utility vehicles and pickup trucks show a higher share in ROR crashes compared to NROR crashes. Driver-related factors with the highest likelihood ratios for ROR crashes include falling asleep (14.49), ill or medical conditions (6.19), and driving under the influence of alcohol (4.23). Vehicle-related issues such as tire and wheel failures also significantly contribute to ROR events. Environmental factors like strong winds, freezing rain, and falling snow exhibit high likelihood ratios, as do road-related conditions such as poor shoulders, ruts, and holes. Conversely, factors like failing to give attention and disregarding traffic signals are more associated with NROR crashes. The findings underscore that ROR crashes are driven by a specific combination of driver impairment, adverse environmental conditions, and roadway geometry issues. The high likelihood ratios for fatigue, medical conditions, and substance use suggest that interventions targeting driver alertness and sobriety are critical for reducing ROR incidents. Additionally, the strong association with rural, curved, and gravel roads highlights the need for improved roadside safety features, such as enhanced delineation and shoulder treatments, in these specific environments. By identifying these distinct risk factors, the study provides evidence-based guidance for prioritizing safety strategies to mitigate the frequency and severity of run-off-road crashes.

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Topics

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• pre crash contributing factors
• crash typology

Information type

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• Empirical Findings: crash risk outcomes