As of March 1, 1993 a partial obligation (relating only to semi-motorways and main roads), which from June 1, 1994 relates to all roads in built-up areas, to use Daytime Running Lights (DRL) came into force in Hungary. The impact of the measure has been studied not only by a simple before/after comparison, but also by a method known from the international literature. Based on the unanimous results it can be stated that the measure has significantly contributed to the improvement of the road traffic safety situation also in Hungary. Due to it, the number of daytime frontal collisions and crossing traffic collisions decreased by 7-8%. As a result of the measure, the number of the accidents that occurred in good visibility has decreased by a still greater extent, by 11-14%. The number of frontal and cross-traffic collisions decreased without an increase at the same time in rear-end collisions: the number of the latter has not changed significantly. DRL law proved to be an effective measure also in domestic vision and weather conditions. Moreover, it has had a positive impact also in the summer months. The Hungarian results show a good coincidence with the results of a prediction model describing the relationship between latitude and the effect of DRL. (A)
Abstract