Motorcyclist fatalities constitute an important road safety problem within the Spanish regional road network of Castilla y León (CyL). In 11.1% of fatal accidents (2004), at least one PTW (Powered Two Wheeler) rider was involved. Run-off collisions constituted 43% of these accidents. In these kind of crashes, impacts against fixed objects which are not properly protected may cause severe injuries. Motorcyclist Protection Devices (MPD) are aimed at decreasing the severity of a PTW run off crash. This paper presents a study recommending the specific placing of MPDs based on run-off accident risk calculated for CyL regional administration. The objective is to identify bends on roads where there is a higher risk of PTW run-off collision in order to install a MPD. Factors such as road layout, signalling, slope, superelevation, and road perception have been considered. This research was structured as follows: 1. An exhaustive descriptive analysis of the Injury Accident database of all PTW run-off accidents in CyL. 2. Analysis of representative road sections. These sections were video recorded and GPS positioned, specific road safety inspections took place, road operator data was analyzed and in-depth investigations and reconstructions were performed. 3. Application of epidemiological methodologies (Crossover Case Control) in order to detect relevant risk factors. This innovative methodology allowed for the development of scientifically based criteria, structured in four scenarios, for MPD location. MPD performance is assessed by UNE-135900 standard (2005) published by the Spanish Road Ministry.
Abstract