Characteristics and Contributory Causes Associated with Large-Truck Crashes and Countermeasures for Mitigation

Statistics show that the total number of registered large trucks and truck vehicle-miles traveled has increased in the last 10 years. As a result, their probability of involvement in crashes also increases. This study identified the characteristics, factors associated with their occurrences, and the causes contributing to the increased severity of truck crashes in Kansas. Suitable countermeasure ideas were also identified to mitigate the number and severity of truck crashes. Various driver-, road-, environment- and vehicle- related characteristics and contributory causes were identified and analyzed. Driver-related causes were more common than any other type of contributory cause for the occurrence of truck-crashes. Failing to give enough time and attention, being too fast for existing conditions, and failing to yield right-of-way were the most dominant truck-driver-related contributory causes, among many others. Through the severity modeling, factors associated with increased severity of truck-crashes were identified. Truck-driver being trapped had the highest odds of contributing to a more severe truck-crash followed by the collision resulting in damage to the truck and truck-driver being under the influence of alcohol respectively. Intelligent countermeasure ideas along with some traditional practices followed to mitigate truck-crashes were identified. Automated Truck Rollover Warning Systems, Lane Drift Warning Systems (LDWS), Speed Limiters, and connecting vehicle technologies like Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) integration systems were among the countermeasure ideas. Development and implementation of these countermeasures in a cost effective manner might help mitigate the number and severity of truck-crashes, thereby improving overall safety of the highway system.