Summary

The legal implications of the use of frangible or break-away poles is investigated. It is concluded that road authorities that use frangible poles will not normally be held liable to persons injured by them. Authorities who use rigid poles instead of safer equipment may be held liable in negligence in some circumstances. Potential defendants are identified.

Download complete report

Summary

This is the final report of a project (IRRD No. 605759) which involved a critical review of Australian and overseas urban planning practice aimed at road safety improvements, based on direct contact with urban local government authorities and planning bodies and an extensive literature search. The report summarises the sources of information and outlines the recommended planning practices found in key Australian, Swedish and South African guidelines. The extent of actual application of these principles is then discussed.

Summary

A review of the literature relating to breaking stability and handling of motorcycles was undertaken. Evidence of relationships between motorcycle characteristics and accidents was sought. Anecdotal evidence of operational problems published in user magazines was also reviewed. Experimental and analytical investigations of motorcycle dynamics, and the effects of accessories, tyres and machine modifications were surveyed. Problem areas were identified and priorities for further research recommended.

Download complete report

Summary

This report describes the use of alcohol and medication reported by weekend, night-time drivers surveyed at random by Police in Victoria, Australia and Northern Ireland, United Kingdom. In Melbourne 5.3% of these drivers had used alcohol, 8.4% had used medication and 18.7% had used alcohol and medication or both. These figures were 2 .1 %, 2.6% and 3.7% respectively for drivers in rural Victoria. In Belfast, they were l.5%, 5.5% and 6.6% respectively.