Roadway Departure Crashes: How Can They Be Reduced?

Roadway departure crashes, which result from a vehicle crossing an edge line or center line or leaving the roadway, were responsible for 58% of accident fatalities in 2006. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the problem of roadway departure crashes. Research has shown that roadway departure crashes mostly occur on two-lane local highways and are overrepresented on horizontal curves. Alcohol, fatigue, distraction and speed are contributing factors. Decreasing these crashes will require a comprehensive plan with integrated safety activities developed through participation at all levels of highway agencies. The actions required to ensure data-driven decisions and cost-effective implementation currently are taking place. Research is being funded to investigate the relationship among safety and operational and design elements. Practitioners are receiving training and political guidance to assist in their effort to increase highway safety. These steps should help to reduce the incidence of roadway departure crashes.