In this report a description is given of research into overturning of lorries, based principally on literature from Western Europe and the United States. Emphasis is placed on possible measures that can be taken to prevent overturning of lorries. In Europe, overturning occurs in 3% to 10% of all accidents involving lorries. In the United States, overturning occurs in 4% to 9% of all accidents involving lorries, in one third of single vehicle accidents with lorries, and in 15% of the fatal accidents with lorries. Among the factors playing a role in overturning, 'high speed', `swerving', and `curves' are highly represented. High wind is an important cause inoverturning. Measures that can be taken to prevent overturning of lorries are: (1) Impose a limitation on traffic during times when gusts of winds are higher than 17 to 20 m/s; (2) Indicate a safe speed at which lorry drivers can take curves; and (3) use premium differentiation and compulsory excess to stimulate hauliers to use vehicles less susceptible to overturning. In addition, a number of measures are made to reduce the consequences of overturning of lorries, for instance: install automatic three-point seatbelts in lorries, with all anchorages located on the seat.
Abstract