Distinctions between Older Drivers At-fault and Not-at-fault Crashes: A Rule-based Approach

Abstract

Characteristics of crashes have been extensively analyzed. Some of them focused on analyzing "at-fault" drivers for identifying the risk level of specific driving populations. However, it requires different skills to prevent at-fault and not-at-fault crashes. This study adopts the decision tree method and Taiwan roadway crash data for extracting older drivers at-fault and not-at-fault crash scenarios. Distinctions between these two types of crashes are found. Older motorcyclists have difficulties maintaining situational awareness against motorcycles and bicycles and obeying the right of way. Thus, older drivers and motorcyclists are more likely at-fault with other motorcycles and bicycles in opposite or intersected directions. Additionally, older drivers and motorcyclists are more likely not-at-fault in rear-end crashes in non-signalized intersections owing to frequent speed adjustments to compensate for their degenerated information processing capability. Results of this study could be valuable for developing training materials for driving safety improvements.