Investigation of Deer-Vehicle Crash Data and Countermeasure Implementation in Texas
Keith K. Knapp, Texas A&M University, February 2008, 36 pp. (167170-1)
The Deer-Vehicle Crash Information and Research (DVCIR) Center is the only entity in the United States that focuses on the DVC problem and its reduction. This project investigated the status of DVC data and countermeasure implementation in Texas. Two meetings on the subject were also sponsored.
The investigation of Texas data revealed an interesting set of characteristics and patterns. The police-reported data are actually for animal-vehicle crashes (AVCs) and generally only for those incidents resulting in an injury/fatality or the towing of a vehicle. The data indicate that the total number of police-reported AVCs in Texas decreased from 1992 to 2001 (unlike most of the country), but it was also determined that this was likely due to a change in the crash reporting threshold. The number of AVC-related injuries, on the other hand, increased dramatically. The “top ten” AVC counties in Texas generally include those with large or growing traffic volumes and/or favorable deer habitat. Overall, comparisons of the AVC data and two estimates of these incidents also indicate that the former may not fully describe the AVC problem. The use of supplemental alternative AVC databases was recommended.
The implementation of countermeasures to reduce collisions between large animals and vehicles in Texas has been limited. Existing bridges and culverts have been retrofitted for wildlife and new crossings proposed. Deer crossing warning signs have also been installed. It is recommended that existing and new countermeasures be implemented and/or monitored.
The two meetings sponsored by this project resulted in the identification and/or prioritization of the non-research activities and the research subject areas that may be funded by the DVCIR Center. These meetings were essential to the advancement and growth of the DVCIR Center pooled fund project.
Keywords: Deer-Vehicle Crashes, Safety Data, Safety Analysis
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