Rural crossroads have a unique crash profile, which appears to be related to the surrounding environment and road geometry as much as driver factors. Failing to detect the crossroad is a common crash cause at rural crossroads compared to other intersection types.
This research project gathered data on how often ‘failure to detect’ crashes occur at rural crossroads, analysed the likely causes of those crashes, and then tested possibilities for low-cost and easily done mitigations.
Previous New Zealand Transport Agency statistics found that 17% of deaths and serious injuries on rural roads occured at intersections. The frequency and seriousness of these crashes emphasises the importance of safety interventions. However, many rural intersections are controlled with only a single Stop or Give Way sign.
The trial found that research participants became aware of an intersection up to 160m earlier using low-cost measures such as altered signs or road markings.
This research had two goals:
An analysis of fatal and serious crashes at rural crossroads also identified common environmental, road geometry, and driver factors associated with ‘failed to detect’ crashes.
In combination with other research, the findings should provide road controlling authorities with the confidence to develop and roll out a nationwide low-cost treatment approach to mitigate ‘failure to detect’ crashes.
Research Report - Reducing 'failed to detect' crashes at rural crossroads (PDF, 5 MB)
Flyer - Rural intersections - What you don't see can kill you (PDF, 820 KB)
Page last updated: November 2024
