INJURY SEVERITY ASSESSMENT OF BICYCLE CRASHES ON RURAL ROADWAYS IN WISCONSIN

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to determine the crash types involving cyclists on two-lane rural roads in Wisconsin and their attributes. Table 33 summarizes the findings based on manner of collisions. The summary shows that “front to side” and “no collision with vehicle in transport” are the main collisions to focus on. The collisions make up 25% and 22% of all collisions, respectively. These collisions show that no matter whether there is a denser population area or not, that there is a miscommunication between drivers and cyclists. This lack of communication can be helped with the insertion of rumble strips, specifically on shoulders. The rumble strips can help both cyclists and drivers become aware when they are swerving into other lanes. This awareness can help prevent “front to side” and “no collision with vehicle in transport” crashes. “Front to side” collisions may happen if a driver is distracted or trying to avoid opposite traffic. There can be several reasons for “no collision with vehicle in transport”, but this most likely happens when a cyclist sees a vehicle reducing lateral clearance and maneuvers to avoid contact. Another major collision type is “sideswipe in the same direction.” “Sideswipe in the same direction” makes up 17% of all manner of collisions. This collision type happens when the distance between the driver and cyclist is reduced suddenly. It may be due to a driver moving closer to the shoulder to avoid oncoming traffic. This manner of collision may also be reduced by installing rumble strips.