Characteristics of Truck-Related Crashes in Highway Work Zones

Abstract

Truck-related crashes contribute to a significant percentage of vehicle crashes in the work zones, which often result in injuries and fatalities. To mitigate the risk of truck-related crashes and develop effective safety countermeasures, a study on truck-related crashes between 2000 and 2008 in Kansas highway work zones was conducted. Results of the study indicated that about half of the truck drivers were at fault and were responsible for the fatal crashes in the work zones; straight following was the maneuver most truck drivers took before the crash happened; the rear-end crash was the dominant type for fatal, injury and property damage only crashes; and more than half of the fatal crashes occurred on straight and level highway work zones. Based on the study results, safety countermeasures that focus on mitigating the severity of truck-related crashes in the work zones were recommended in terms of work zone traffic control and public education.