This micro-module introduces learners to the key concepts and tools used to improve traffic safety in urban environments. You will learn how to analyse accident data, identify high-risk areas in cities, and apply proactive methods to assess traffic risks before accidents occur.
The micro-module is divided into three parts:
- Understanding Accidents: explore the causes of traffic accidents and how data can reveal patterns and solutions.
- Pre-Accident Observation Methods: learn how to use techniques like the Swedish Traffic Conflict Technique and Risk Assessment Matrix to spot danger zones.
- Urban Safety & Planning: dive into how road design and traffic calming measures can protect vulnerable road users and improve mobility for all.
The micro-module includes lectures, group work, and a final seminar presentation.
The group work concerns a real-world case study, analysing a location in a city and proposing safety improvements based on Swedish and international guidelines.
Case study: Pre-Accident Traffic Observation Methods
Road traffic accidents do not happen very often, and many are not reported or registered in the national traffic accidents reports. This makes it hard to tell if a place is truly dangerous just by looking only at historical accident record last 5-10 years. Waiting for years to collect enough accident data is not only slow but also raises ethical concerns: do we really have to wait for more people to get hurt before making changes? That is why we need ways to spot risks before accidents happen. This case-study engages learner teams in assessing real-world road infrastructure in chosen existing location(s) in a city based on challenges, best practices and different guidelines from Sweden and internationally. Teams will apply mainly Traffic Risk Assessment Matrix and/or the Swedish Traffic Conflict Technique to quantify traffic risks and identify problem areas that affect various road user groups. Teams will also select and assess existing Traffic Calming Measures and analyse their effects on chosen road user groups.
