Relationship between Road Geometry, Observed Travel Speed and Rural Accidents

This study investigates the aspects of highway alignment that might affect drivers' choices of speed. Speed is an important factor that contributes to traffic accidents in rural areas. This study examines the relationship between highway curve radii, driver's observed curve navigation speeds, and the preceding speed environment. Accident and speed data collected during 2005-2006, and highway geometry, are used in the study. It is concluded that the data obtained from the study would be useful as an accident forecasting tool, and to provide highway network screening.