Today, traffic safety analysis primarily relies on accident statistics from the Astra database, which is based on police accident reports. Fortunately, recorded accidents are slowly decreasing, but the causes are changing due to societal developments. Additionally, many accidents are not reported to the police and thus not recorded. This lack of data hampers prevention efforts as risk factors and trends are hard or recognized too late. Astra is aware of the importance of these data gaps and has initiated a research project. A working consortium of TCS, ZHAW, and Swisstraffic AG has been tasked with investigating various indicators to improve traffic safety. 'By participating in this study alongside renowned partners such as ZHAW and Swisstraffic, TCS provides its expertise in traffic safety analysis and reaffirms its continuous commitment to achieving sustainable improvements in traffic safety in Switzerland,' emphasizes Christophe Nydegger, Head of Traffic Safety.
The study first examined which existing indicators and risk factors in road traffic are currently measured and recorded. Today, the focus is on accident causes such as speed, alcohol and drug influence, and the wearing or not wearing of helmets and seat belts. Therefore, the study authors recommend a new system of 'Safety Performance Indicators (SPI)' as an addition to today's data collection, which would allow risks to be identified even before an accident occurs. Unlike in other countries, numerous accident-related data without police reports are not systematically recorded in Switzerland. Although there are already many relevant data, they are often not standardized and not accessible through a common system. In the future, it would therefore be important that all statistical accident data are collected and consolidated, regardless of whether it comes from the police or insurance companies. This would create a comprehensive and realistic picture of accidents.
Smartphones, Slow Traffic, and Emergency Services as Indicators
The study defined various new SPIs that can better measure road traffic risks. Among the most important new indicators recommended by the study is the measurement of distraction caused by smartphones, infrastructure for pedestrian and bicycle traffic, and the recording of response time after an accident.
Distraction is responsible for 18 percent of all accidents, and a substantial portion is likely attributable to smartphone use. If smartphone use is recorded during traffic observations, the data could be actively used for prevention campaigns. Measurement systems that record smartphone use while driving already exist and could be implemented with reasonable effort.
Separated bike paths and lanes demonstrably improve traffic safety. The study authors therefore recommend an SPI that accurately records the proportion of bike paths. This would make it possible to identify network gaps and advance expansion measures.
In addition to the SPIs focusing on prevention, the study also examines emergency services. The focus here is on response time - that is, the time elapsed from the emergency call to the arrival of emergency services at the accident site. While this SPI cannot prevent accidents, the response time provides insight into how efficient the processes are and the adequacy of emergency organization coverage. Rapid initiation of treatment for crash injuries can also accelerate the healing process and reduce long-term impairments.
The study highlights that more comprehensive data could further improve traffic safety. A system based on SPIs could be effective here. TCS intends to use the insights gained to engage in dialogue with authorities and partners to identify and mitigate road traffic risks.