Exploring the Linkage Between Human Factors and Road Geometric Elements Influencing the Road Traffic Accidents on the National Roads of South Africa

Abstract

AbstractRoad traffic accidents on the National Highways across the world particularly in developing countries is a recurring challenge. Among the various factors attributed to the challenge, human factors such as driver and road user behaviour and errors as well as road geometric design elements are the major causes for the occurrence of accidents. Therefore, by using the study context of a national road (N1) of South Africa, the study examined the various human and road geometric factors that influence the occurrence of accidents in the national roads of South Africa and explore if linkages between these factors exist. The study was conducted using a survey research method. Findings revealed that geometric factors—merging of lanes, long and straight road sections, poor shoulder condition and inadequate shoulder width are the major causes of road accidents. Human factors such as speeding, recklessness, uncertain driving, poor control of vehicles, lack of respect towards traffic and rule and regulations, etc., also contribute to the occurrence of accidents on the national roads. It is also found that there exist linkages among these geometric elements with different driver behaviour and contribute to the occurrence of accidents on the national roads of South Africa.