Accident statistics for the USA are discussed. The fatality rate has increased from 39,250 in 1992 to 41,611 in 1999 but this is associated with an expanding economy and increased vehicle usage. The fatality rate per 100 million vehicle miles travelled has however decreased to an all time low of 1.5 fatalities per 100 million miles travelled. Trends towards increasing purchasing of light trucks are noted and they accounted for 27% of fatalities, which is an increasing trend. In 1999, 14% of fatalities were vulnerable road users. Single vehicle rollover accounted for 21% of fatalities. Accident data collection and analysis is described. Research highlights in the development of a National Advanced Driving Simulator (NADS), the intelligent vehicle initiative (IVI), driver/vehicle performance, and heavy vehicle initiatives are provided. Crashworthiness research has concentrated on vehicle aggressivity/compatibility, frontal crash protection, side impact, and advanced air bag technology. Biomechanics research including the activities of the crash injury research and engineering network (CIREN), analytical modelling and simulation, experimental impact injury research, and anthropometric dummy development is described. International harmonisation initiatives are outlined. Consumer vehicle safety information and new rules for collision avoidance, crashworthiness and consumer information are detailed.
Samenvatting