Abstract
The skid mark is valuable for accident reconstruction as it provides information about the drivers’ braking behaviour and the speed of heavy vehicles. However, despite its importance, there is currently no mathematical model available to estimate skidding distance (SD) as a function of vehicle characteristics and road conditions. This paper attempts to develop a non-linear regression model that is capable of reliably predicting the skidding distance of heavy vehicles under various road conditions and vehicle characteristics. To develop the regression model, huge data sets were derived from complex heavy vehicle multi-body dynamic simulation. An emergency braking simulation was conducted to examine the skidding distance of a heavy vehicle model subject to various Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) and vehicle speeds, as well as the coefficient of friction of the road under wet and dry conditions. The results suggested that the skidding distance is significantly affected by Gross Vehicle Weight, speeds, and coefficient of friction of the road. The improved non-linear regression model provides a better prediction of the skidding distance than that of the conventional approach thus suitable to be employed as an alternative model for skidding distance of heavy vehicles in accident reconstruction.
Highlights
Today, the heavy vehicle is still the most flexible and one of the most efficient ways to transport freight all over the world
It is clearly seen there is an increase in skidding distance (SD) with an increase in Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), and this is especially significant at high vehicle speeds
Within the context of the research: 1. This study has confirmed that the skidding distance of a heavy vehicle is not dominated by a single factor, but rather is dependent on various conditions, including vehicle load, vehicle speed, and the road surface condition
Summary
The heavy vehicle is still the most flexible and one of the most efficient ways to transport freight all over the world. Many traffic regulations and limitations have been imposed, crashes are still being reported daily. Several studies have reported critically injured or killed occupants are more frequent in accidents involving heavy vehicles compared to those involving passenger cars Efforts to reduce the risk of heavy vehicle accidents, such as the understanding of vehicle behaviour during braking, have always been essential in the research field of traffic safety (Ong & Fwa, 2009)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
