Citation

Siria BS, Deen RC. Transp. Res. Rec. 1974; 489: 19-33.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1974, Transportation Research Board, National Research Council, National Academy of Sciences USA, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

An analysis of accident records indicated that automobile-utility trailer(AUT) combinations are involved in a disproportionately high number of traffic mishaps. Examination of the history of accidents involving AUT vehicles indicated that differential crosswinds and unanticipated driving maneuvers contribute to the driver's loss of control. AUT combinations contributed to the fatigue loss in pavement life approximately 50 percent as much as single-unit, two-axle, six-tire trucks (per vehicle). In general, AUT vehicles constitute approximately 3 percent of the total traffic stream. Analysis of speed distributions indicated an equivalency factor for AUT combinations equal to that for trucks for similar roadway types and topographical conditions.