The proposal is discussed for a new research method for case studies of traffic accidents. The method is based on two separate analyses. The first one aims at reconstruction of the cause of the accident. Based on measurements made on the accident site accident variables which can be used to logically eliminate some of the seven predetermined accident factors are defined. In the second analysis information received by the driver is compared with information needed in the traffic situation just before the accident. It is determined if the lack of information contributing to the accident was caused by a mechanical, perceptual or cognitive filter. On the basis of the opinion of the tampere case-study board a broader application of the development method is recommended.
Abstract