Investigation of key crash types: rear-end crashes in urban and rural environments

Abstract

This report collates research into factors contributing to the incidence and severity of rear-end crashes in urban and rural environments in Australia and New Zealand. It also identifies a number of possible pertinent mitigation measures. A crash data analysis (for a five year period 2006-2010) and inspection of key crash sites were conducted to supplement available research on this topic. Recommendations are made on practical ways to reduce the incidence and severity of rear-end crashes within the working environment of the Safe System approach. The National Road Safety Strategy has identified intersection crashes as one of the most frequent crash types occurring on Australian roads. As rear-end crashes are a common collision type at intersections, they have been targeted as part of the strategy.