Factors Affecting Wrong-way Driving Crashes and Fatalities: A Scenario with High Incidence of Wrong-way Movements

Characteristics of wrong-way driving (WWD) crashes have been studied in contexts where WWD is rare. Whereas, the problem is more severe in India, where WWD is prevalent on divided roads due to the deficiencies in road networks and access management, and the prevalence of motorized two-wheelers. To explain the factors influencing the occurrence and fatality of WWD crashes in this scenario, the authors analyse crash data from Tamil Nadu state from 2009 to 2021; they compare univariate distributions and perform logistic regression. Disagreeing with earlier studies, WWD crashes in India are more likely to occur during the daytime when urban activity is higher, to be caused by drivers younger than 65 years, and are less likely to be fatal compared to non-WWD crashes. Conditions associated with higher odds of WWD crashes are: occurring on state highways, at intersections and in areas where heavy vehicles are prohibited, drivers with less formal education, and vehicles other than cars. Fatal outcomes are more likely on national highways, sections without paved shoulders, during nighttime, or when pedestrians, older or intoxicated drivers, or larger vehicles are involved. To reduce WWD crash risk, policymakers should prioritize preventing intentional WWD at highway intersections. Improved WWD crash data recording and research can guide targeted countermeasures. Enhancing access to local activity, and improving signage, control and enforcement at intersections can discourage WWD. Providing paved shoulders and pedestrian safety measures can reduce fatalities. Raising awareness of WWD risks among younger and undereducated drivers, and pedestrians is critical for long-term prevention.