Have you ever wondered what transportation factors cause most fatal accidents in Wisconsin? In order to find out, the information from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) has been broken down and analyzed, and five different factors were found to contribute frequently. FARS is run by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA).
First, the information shows that traffic controls, such as stop signs and red lights, played a large role. There were more accidents in places where these controls were not used.
Next, the speed and route types played a role. For instance, it was discovered that most crashes happened when drivers are in 55 MPH zones, and 45 MPH zones came in second. Higher speeds -- such as interstate speeds -- do not cause the most accidents.
After that, the study found that road characteristics were an important part of the equation. This included things like the type of pavement being used and the configuration or design of the road.
Fourth, the study noted that weather could have a large impact. As one might expect, things like snow and rain can cause accidents by making it harder for drivers to see and by making the surfaces slick.
Finally, the classification of the road factored in. For instance, more deadly accidents tend to happen on rural roads, while fewer of these crashes took place on city roads.
Naturally, the study also found that things like drunk driving and human error played a huge role. However, these are technically viewed as personal factors, not transportation factors.
If you've been injured in an accident, no matter the reason, it's important to know that you may be entitled to financial compensation.
Source: Bureau of Transportation Statistics, "Factors Involved in Fatal Vehicle Crashes," Jenny Guarino and Amrut Champaneri, accessed May. 19, 2015