Abstract

Statewide average and critical rates of accidents were determined from 1970-1972 Kentucky accident records for each type of rural highway. Accident data, obtained from state police computer tapes, were summarized to give the number of accidents on each highway type as well as information on accident severity, road surface conditions, light conditions, road character, and type of traffic control. Four-lane undivided highways had the highest average accident rate; parkways (toll roads) had the lowest rate. The severity of accidents was related to types of accidents, highways, and traffic control and to safety belt usage. Accidents involving pedestrians were the most severe types; single-vehicle accidents ranked next highest in severity. Excluding accidents at railroad crossings, accidents which occurred on curves had the highest severity index. The use of safety belts was associated with reduced severity.

Report Date

11-1974

Report Number

No. 406

Digital Object Identifier

http://dx.doi.org/10.13023/KTC.RR.1974.406

Notes

Accepted for publication by the Transportation Research Board.

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