This paper describes the preliminary results of an analysis of motorcycle accident data bases to identify the frequency and severity of different types of motorcycle/car collisions. Data from three primary accident studies conducted in the United States of America, Birmingham (UK) and Hannover (Germany) were utilized. From this analysis specific accident impact conditions, of known frequency and severity can be selected as one possible basis for motorcycle crash tests. It is also concluded that consideration should be given to the specific injuries addressed by a particular protective system and the characteristics of that system. This is also true when looking at the effects of vehicle size differences, performance in single vehicle crashes, etc. Some of the problems with interpretation of data from the three bases are discussed. (A) For the covering abstract of the conference, see IRRD 837684.
Abstract