This paper attempts to explain how the United Kingdom has achieved a road safety record, which is good compared to that of most other countries, and suggests ways in which China can avoid the increase in road accidents normally associated with infrastructure development and traffic growth. In some countries, growth in vehicle ownership has resulted in significant increases in road accidents, but most countries of Western Europe, including the United Kingdom have very significantly reduced road accident deaths between 1970 and 1984. The improvement in the road safety of Western Europe is a result of safety programmes there, which include the use of low-cost measures such as improved road markings and signing, but also include the following four essential factors: (1) driver education, including training by approved instructors, driving test, and safety advertising; (2) legislation designed to influence drivers' behaviour, through such controls as speed limits, the compulsory wearing of seat belts, and drink/drive regulations; (3) enforcement of this legislation through deterrent penalties; and (4) engineering measures to make the road environment safer. This paper considers the last of these aspects in more detail, and examines the role of such low-cost engineering measures as road marking, road studs, anti-skid surfaces, and bridge joint repair systems as cost-effective contributors to road safety, driver comfort, and improved road appearance. Four recommendations are made about how to obtain the maximum benefit from the engineering methods implemented. For the covering abstract of the conference see IRD 819925.
Abstract