Comparison of Mid-Block and Intersection-Related Left Turn Collisions

Abstract

Objectives. To evaluate the factors that might influence an occupant's injury severity during a left turn movement. Methods. We used the National Automotive Sampling System Crashworthiness Data System (1995–2005) to compare crash characteristics and injury outcome between intersection and midblock left turn collisions.

Results. A total of 7,396 collisions were evaluated. Traffic control devices were present in 82% of intersection and 10% of mid-block collisions. After adjustment for potential confounding variables, drivers' injury severity was not significantly associated with the crash location. However, front seat passengers in mid-block collisions had 72% higher odds of experiencing an injury with injury severity score ≥9 (odds ratio: 1.72, 95% confidence interval: 1.09–2.69). Our analysis did not show that drivers or passengers in larger vehicles, e.g., sport utility vehicles and mini-vans, were at lower risk of more severe injuries in comparison to the car occupants in sedans.

Conclusion. We found that in comparison to intersection-related left turn collisions, mid-block crashes are associated with more severe injuries for front seat passengers. Furthermore, size of the turning vehicle was not significantly associated with injury severity for drivers or front seat passengers.

Keywords:

• Motor Vehicle Collision
• Left Turn
• Midblock Collision
• Intersection Collision
• Type of Vehicle
• Alcohol
• SUV
• Sedan

Notes

¹ For turning vehicle.

²Only 38 left turning vehicles were hit from back. These cases were excluded from analysis.

³For the striking vehicle.

¹Under these circumstances, the traffic way is physically divided; however, the division is unprotected; e.g., vegetation, paved medians, trees, and water (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2005).

²Under these circumstances, the traffic way is physically divided by concrete, metal, or other types of manufactured longitudinal barrier.

¹Sport utility vehicles.

²Curb weight < 4536 kg.

³Driver and front-seat passenger's airbags were deployed.

¹Injury Severity Score.