The results of this research reveal the structure of present-day accident patterns and their complex interrelationships. In this respect, passive vehicle safety is a decisive factor and is also controllable by technical measures; however, any further significant reduction in the numbers of people killed and injured in road accidents can only be achieved if driver/vehicle performance, active safety and the environmental situation are all improved. Increased attention has therefore been paid to the effects derived from the combination of driver and vehicle. Traffic safety measures are increasingly judged on the basis of their cost-effectiveness and market acceptance. This study provides decision-making criteria in these fields. In attempting to ensure that the effects of technical safety developments are assessable as soon as possible after their introduction, German automobile insurers have continually improved the method of retrospective accident report analysis. In addition to expert conclusions, this study is intended to show the possibilities for research into the accidents that have occurred and to outline the starting points for interdisciplinary research. The most frequent types of accident (collision between two cars and accidents involving single car alone) have been analysed to define requirements for greater safety in road traffic. In addition to recommendations to the legislative authorities and industry, this report is also intended to give the general public a broader understanding of the need for safety precautions.
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