Profile of crashes at intersections in South Australia

Abstract

Intersections represent one of the most safety critical parts of the road network. They are characterised by a high risk of collisions with large impact angles and high speeds. In 2019, 20% of fatal crashes in metropolitan areas occurred at intersections. Knowledge of both the types and relative incidence of intersection crashes should assist in identifying effective treatments aimed at reducing the risk of casualty crashes (fatal, injury) in this critical part of the road network. Therefore, the objective of this report was to provide a broad overview of the various types of crashes occurring at intersections in South Australia. A top-down analysis was carried out on police reported road crashes that occurred in South Australia between 2013 and 2019 (inclusive). After an initial overview of all crashes at intersections, a more specific analysis was carried out on casualty crashes at intersections. Finally, a specific analysis was conducted on pedestrian-related casualty crashes at intersections. At each level of this top-down approach, a breakdown analysis was conducted to further examine the role of relevant factors such as type of control (signalised, priority, roundabouts), road environment (urban or rural) and speed limit. Results are presented in the form of various graphs and cover three major geographical areas: (i) the entire state, (ii) Adelaide metropolitan area only, (iii) outside of Adelaide metropolitan area. This information can be used to support and inform future research activities as well as the selection of appropriate countermeasures to improve safety at intersections.