Scientists at the DLR (German Aerospace Centre) have analysed over 4 000 crashes in a study sponsored by the German federal traffic agency BAST. The statistical federal office in Germany shows over 300 000 crashes for the year 2005 wherein the cause is almost always the driver. The DLR institute examines collisions in order to develop assistance systems for the driver. The recent study shows three typical traffic situations where the driver needs support:
1. Junctions (intersections): The driver completely misses other vehicles, especially bicycles or motorcycles.
2. Rear-end collisions: Sudden braking at junctions or in traffic lanes may catch the driver unawares.
3. Single-car crashes: without other vehicle involvement the driver may be negligent about speed, wet or icy road conditions.
3. Single-car crashes: without other vehicle involvement the driver may be negligent about speed, wet or icy road conditions.
The study suggests over 70% of serious crashes could be avoided with driver assistance systems.
