Methodology for Determining Motorcycle Operator Crash Risk and Alcohol Impairment: Volume I: Synthesis Report on Alternative Approaches with Priorities for Research

摘要

Alcohol-involvement continues to be a prominent factor in motorcycle crashes. Automobile-driver drinking and driving has been researched extensively, and the relationship between drivers' blood alcohol concentrations (BAC) and crash risk is well-understood. Unfortunately, our current understanding of the effects of BAC on motorcycle operation is insufficient. This project examined a variety of approaches by which the effects of alcohol on motorcycle rider impairment and crash risk can be measured. A two volume report was prepared. This is Vol. I: Synthesis Report on Alternative Approaches with Priorities for Research. Various research methods were reviewed in the literature (see Volume II, Literature Review), and an expert panel was convened for detailed discussion and prioritizing of possible methods. Different methods were grouped by assessed scientific value and estimated cost. Generally, it was determined that methods using existing data would be the lowest cost, but would also have the lowest scientific value. Conversely, the best data will come from new, more detailed data collection methods specifically defining the population-at-risk. Methods examined include field studies that collect actual highway data, and simulator or closed course studies that collect data in a controlled setting. Priorities for future research were assigned to each methodology. The highest priority methodologies were assigned to Contemporary Case Control, Simulation and Induced Exposure studies.