MOTORCYCLE CRASH INVESTIGATIONS: THE CASE-CONTROL APPROACH

This study was undertaken to identify the risk factors for motorcycle crashes by comparing the characteristics of motorcyclists in crashes with those riding safely. Crashed riders and pillion passengers were interviewed, helmets and bikes inspected, sites inspected and ridden through and motorcyclists riding through the crash sites at the same time of day and week were interviewed. The characteristics of the 222 crashes in the Melbourne metropolitan area are summarised. It was concluded that the road surface actively contributed to the occurrence or severity of 15 percent of crashes. Case-control comparisons of the ages of riders, engine capacity and trip reasons are presented. Exposure estimates were derived from motorcycle and general traffic volumes observed while recruiting controls. Overall, motorcycles comprised about 0.005 of the total traffic flow, which was highest on weekend days. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see IRRD abstract no. E200025.