Analysis of Linked Crash and Citation Data for Use in Determining Causation for Work Zone Crashes

Many of the nation’s roadways are reaching the end of their design lives, resulting in an estimated 3,000 work zones during each construction season. As the Nation’s roadways continue to age, the number of work zones is expected to increase and the opportunities for work zone-related crashes will increase as well. This research effort examined the relationship between crash causation for work zone and non-work zone related crashes based upon the frequency and types of citations being issued. Initially a comparison between all crashes and all crashes with citations was completed, revealing that crashes with citations are not necessarily representative of crashes-at-large. Subsequent to that, an analysis of general work zone versus non-work zone crash and citation elements was completed. Lastly, the analyses integrated specific crash and citation level variables, such as time of day, injury status description, most harmful event, and driver contributing code, etc. From a statistical standpoint, similarities and differences between work zone and non-work zone crashes were identified. More importantly the research findings contribute towards an improved understanding of crash causation specific to work zones, which has the potential to translate into the development of improved countermeasures.