Analysis of Accidents involving turning Cars and Bicycles

Turning Accidents are among the most common types of accidents with bicycles involved. Both cyclists and car drivers tend to show behavior that proves to be inappropriate or disadvantageous in turning manoeuvres. Furthermore, the design and layout of intersections  has an important impact on accident probability and severity.

On behalf of the UDV (German Insurers Accident Research) and in cooperation with the department of Street Planning and Road Use of the University of Technology Berlin, HFC analyses the existing infrastructure at intersections with frequent bicycle accidents in four different communities.Typical behaviors of cyclists and vehicle drivers are being investigated and analyzed in field studies. Interviews with cyclists and road users are conducted to investigate attitudes and behavior.

The findings will be integrated into a hypothetical effect model to illustrates the complexity of effects and factors influencing the behavior in the conflict zone and eventually the risk of turning accidents. The project will result in recommendations for the design of infrastructure and guidance for cyclists. Educational measures as well as the possibility to develop advanced driver support systems to prevent turning accidents will be discussed.