A Study on Road Safety Audit and Black Spot Identification
摘要
Road safety remains a paramount concern for transportation agencies worldwide, as the increasing frequency of road accidents continues to pose significant threats to public health, economic development, and social well-being. This research explores two critical methodologies for improving road safety: Road Safety Audits (RSAs) and black spot identification (BSI). RSAs are structured, systematic evaluations conducted at various stages of road planning, design, construction, and operation, aimed at identifying and addressing potential safety risks before and during the road’s life cycle. The RSA process involves the identification of road safety deficiencies through a multi-disciplinary team of experts, who assess both current and future road conditions in the context of traffic flow, road geometry, environmental factors, and user behavior. This paper examines how RSAs, as a proactive measure, play a pivotal role in preventing accidents by mitigating hazards that could otherwise lead to traffic collisions. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the need for a holistic, data-driven approach to road safety that combines proactive safety audits with targeted interventions at black spots. It underscores the importance of continuous monitoring, risk assessment and stakeholder engagement in creating safer road networks. By integrating RSAs and BSI into routine road maintenance and upgrade processes, transportation agencies can substantially reduce road accidents, fatalities, and injuries, contributing to the broader goals of sustainable and safe mobility.