Statistics show that wrong way driving is a factor in approximately 27% of fatal crashes in Illinois. By investigating these crashes individually, in as much depth as possible, ICT investigators Huaguo Zhou, Ryan Fries, Brent Vaughn, and Chiang Lin are determining the common contributing factors so they can recommend potential countermeasures. Specifically, the investigators are looking at crash data, crash reports, construction reports for fatal crashes, plan and site information, as well as interviewing the officers and engineers who are most familiar with the location and traffic operation. They are also considering less severe crashes to confirm and contrast patterns.
The investigators collected five-year crash data and reports from the IDOT, Illinois State Police (ISP), and Highway Safety Information System (HSIS). They also designed and conducted a statewide survey to identify experiences, current research, and deployed countermeasures. They are currently indentifying contributing factors and have conducted a preliminary statistical analysis based on the data collected.
At completion on the project (set for June 2012), the research results will answer three basic questions: (1) What is the state of practices on safety, design, and operational issues related to wrong-way driving on freeways? (2) What are the wrong-way crash history, pattern, and severity in Illinois? And (3) What are the significant contributing factors affecting severe and less severe wrong-way crashes? The information gained can help reduce these types of driving errors and therefore save lives.