Motorcyclists undone by 'traffic scan' errors

Monash University's Accident Research Centre (MUARC) study into the factors that contribute to motorcycle crashes — as first reported on BIkesales two years ago — is continuing, with a "traffic scan error" the most common contributing factor in multi-vehicle crashes. eg car drivers failing to see a motorcycle rider.

That's just one result of the comprehensive study, which is comparing the experiences of riders injured in crashes at specific sites with riders who have travelled through the same site safely. Factors being investigated include travel speed, rider profile, the behaviour of other road users and the physical environment.

“We know that speed is a factor that determines the severity of a crash, but we have less information about the role that it plays in causing a crash, particularly whether there is any interaction between travel speed and other factors, like rider experience, and crash causation,” said Dr Lesley Day, who is heading up the study. “We also know that motorcycle riders are a vulnerable group for injury and, given an increase in the number of motorcycle riders it is important to conduct this study into contemporary risk factors within the Victorian context and the contributions these factors make to crashes.”

Other results so far include:

- Two thirds of investigated crashes involved another vehicle;
- For single-vehicle crashes, a rider misjudgement or control error was the most common primary contributing factor (as judged from the crash investigation);
- The road environment was judged as a definite or probable secondary factor in over 75 percent of crashes; and
- For over 90 percent of crashes two or more secondary contributing factors were identified, highlighting the complex interaction between road users and the road environment in crash events.

A second case-control analysis on road environment factors is expected to commence in the next two months.

Injured riders admitted to hospitals in Victoria are being directly approached by researchers. To select a control rider, MUARC researchers are photographing number plates and recording the speed of riders passing safely through the site. VicRoads is then contacting riders directly to invite them to participate. Speed data is not being provided to VicRoads or used for any enforcement activity.

Consenting riders are being asked about travel speed, their riding experiences and habits, and the behaviour of other road users. In addition, injured riders are being asked about any other factors that may have contributed to the crash. Experienced and active riders have contributed to the questionnaire design to ensure relevance and improve study outcomes.

“The study aims to provide evidence-based information to riders and the wider community and to help road safety organisations make better decisions.  Ultimately, the study is about helping to improve rider safety and reducing the number and seriousness of motorcycle crashes,” Dr Day said.

Recruitment of injured riders commenced at the Alfred Hospital in January, 2012.

The study is being funded by the Australian Research Council, VicRoads, Victoria Police, TAC, Department of Justice, and VACC.