Citation

Julian F, Moler S. Accid. Reconstr. J. 2009; 19(3): 35-38.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Accident Reconstruction Journal)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Transportation officials at every level continue to invest time, energy, and resources into researching the causes of automobile crashes and developing measures to prevent crashes from occurring in the first place. Two common crash types receiving considerable attention are run-off-the-road and wet-weather crashes. About 25% of all crashes and 14% of all fatal crashes occur on wet pavement according to the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). This article reports on efforts aimed at reducing traffic accidents on sharp curves and wet pavements through the design and development of refined high-friction surfacing systems. These overlays consist of resins and polymers with a binder topped with small, hard aggregate that helps vehicles stay on the road. The surfacing systems are also especially resistant to wear and tear. Demonstration projects of these new high-friction overlays at locations across the country over the last 10 years are beginning to show promising results for reducing wet weather and run-off-the-road crashes.