Reducing the severity of a traffic accident

Abstract

Improving the system of preventive measures aimed at reducing the severity of road accidents is an urgent task. Mortality on roads is constantly increasing and it is necessary to ensure an integrated approach to creating safe road conditions. The purpose of this study is to analyze the promising designs of guardrails designed to prevent uncontrolled exit of vehicles from the roadway and the development of crash cushions. Guardrails should not only be safe for road users, but should also ensure their safety, as well as preserve the elements after crashing it. Conducted analytical studies have shown that to reduce the mechanical damage to vehicles and reduce the severity of injuries to the driver and passengers, it is necessary to develop guardrails that allows capturing shock energy at the moment of contact between the car and the guardrails. The considered design of the crash cushion provides a damping effect when the car crashes the guardrails and at the same time limit the ability to move its elements relative to the original position. This is achieved by using several materials with different strength characteristics in the design of the guardrails, which contributes to its gradual destruction in several stages and smooth energy dissipation.