A Factor Analysis of Traffic Accident Frequency by Type on Major Road Sections in Japan

Abstract

This study aims to identify influencing factors of traffic accidents on Japanese major roads through factor analysis and regression analysis for each accident type, considering their characteristics as rare events. The database consists of a five-year accident record and relevant road traffic condition data on major road sections in Aichi Prefecture, which includes the third largest conurbation area of Japan. From the results of the factor analysis, a trend of high accident rates in broad urban arterials is confirmed, and rear-end or side collisions are widely distributed in suburban areas. From the regression analysis, results reveal that the degree of impact by traffic volume is dependent on accident type, and suggests that several factors related to visibility have an influence on turning and side collisions. The study suggests that improving the quality of traffic flow on major roads by ensuring proper intersection spacing is important for establishing a safer road network.