Application of a Geographic Information System to Analyze Traffic Accidents Using Nantou County, Taiwan, as an Example

Abstract

A geographic information system (GIS) is a commonly used method for analyzing traffic accidents. Through a GIS, data regarding traffic accidents can be presented visually, and traffic accident locations can be analyzed. By identifying locations where traffic accidents frequently occur and highway sections with high accident rates, traffic authorities can adopt preventive measures and enforce traffic regulations to reduce the frequency of traffic accidents, deaths, injuries, and financial losses. The present study analyzed tourist traffic accidents in Nantou County, one of the most popular tourist areas in Taiwan for domestic and international travelers, and tabulated statistical data that were subsequently input into a GIS database to determine dangerous locations and areas where traffic accidents are prone to occur. First, administrative regions in Nantou County were identified and kernel density estimation and repeatability analysis were performed to determine locations with high accident rates. The results showed that in Nantou County, traffic accidents often occur between 12:00 and 18:00 at intersections and on sloped roads and windy roads. The most dangerous locations were Provincial Highway 21 (areas around Sun Moon Lake) and Provincial Highway 14A (areas with access to Qingjing and Hehuanshan). The results of this study could serve as a reference for traffic authorities to develop measures for preventing and regulating traffic accidents.