Proven to Save Lives

April 2021

In early April, the Vision Zero Network published an article on how to reduce traffic deaths by 75% through a “combination of policy changes, modernized road designs, and advanced technologies [that] exist today can be implemented to save lives.”

Friction data have often been left out of safety and design conversations – with serious consequence. More than 25% of all fatal crashes occur on horizontal curves, or three times the average crash rate for non-curves. Fully 83% of fatal roadway departure crashes occur at horizonal curves.

Pavement friction is as crucial to understanding the dynamics of these crashes as geometrics and speed. Likewise, pavement friction management allows transportation agencies to take a systemic, proactive approach to pre-empting traffic deaths and saving lives.

For more than 50 years, WDM has provided SCRIM® continuous pavement friction data collection services and equipment globally. Pavement friction management programs using SCRIM® have proven to reduce skid-related fatalities by up to 40%. But WDM USA Director Ryland Potter points out the benefits extend from there.

“Pavement friction data is an indicator of safety performance and is a critical, but often overlooked, element of systemic safety analysis. It can be used to evaluate the safety performance of roadway segments, intersections, and curves, but it can also be used to inform material selection and maintenance treatment location and prioritization. Pavement friction data can be used to define Safe Systems priorities in a way that aligns with an agency’s broader investment decisions.”

“Friction measurement,” Ryland explains, “is understanding where you are now versus where you need to be to reduce crash risk. It allows DOTs to integrate safety into asset management using a data-driven approach and to make more cost-effective decisions.”

Per the Vision Zero Network, zero is achievable through policy change, better design, and proven technologies. Pavement friction management is proven to reduce fatalities and generate benefits across an asset’s lifecycle.

If you are interested in learning more about designing for and maintaining safe roads, WDM USA is attending the 39th Annual Lifesavers Conference (held online April 26-28, 2021).

For more information or to book an appointment with Ryland, our Director at WDM USA:
Find Out More on WDM USA site

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