ASSESSMENT OF EXISTING DATA BASES FOR HIGHWAY SAFETY ANALYSIS. FINAL REPORT

The objectives of this study are to: (1) assess the applicability and utility of existing large national data bases to highway safety analysis from the standpoint of FHWA; (2) develop alternatives that may enhance the applicability and utility of these data bases; and (3) evaluate the recommended alternatives. The study results are intended for consideration in efforts to improve the capability and utilization of existing data bases and to offer a basis for improvements in ongoing and future data collection efforts so as to better serve the information needs in highway safety analyses. Existing data bases were identified and grouped into seven categories according to a categorization scheme. Seven data bases, one for each category, were then selected for study. The various components of highway safety analysis, as used in this study, are defined and characterized. The applicability and utility of these selected data bases for use in highway safety analysis were evaluated based on available documentation. Conceptual alternatives that would improve or enhance the capabilities and utility of existing data bases to better serve the information needs of highway safety analysis were developed. These identified alternatives were studied and analyzed for their feasibility and practicality and appropriate recommendations were made.