Probabilistic assessment of wind related accidents of road vehicles: A reliability approach

A general probabilistic model for assessment of road vehicle accidents in windy environments is presented. The limit states of safe performance are outlined and the accident point is defined in the space of basic variables. The probability of accident is evaluated using a so-called safety index approach. The theory outlined is used to analyse a particular bus accident by setting up scenarios based on available information. The methodology presented has several potential applications, such as in accident analysis, and in improving the design of roads and highways by pointing out potential accident spots as well as in devising preventive measures to improve traffic safety in windy environments.