From identification to intervention: a 3-phase end-to-end framework for treating crash hotspots in urban networks

Abstract The available safety assessment frameworks lack the necessary integration of data-driven prioritization with diagnostic procedures. The aim of this research is to develop and test a novel 3-phase end-to-end framework for identifying crash hotpots and analyzing them to provide safety interventions. Crash data collected from 2019 to 2023 was analyzed using spatial analysis techniques applied within Geographic Information System (GIS) platform to identify hotspots. The safety of the identified locations was assessed using the International Road Assessment Programme (iRAP) Star Rating protocol. Then field investigations were conducted to recommend effective mitigation strategies. The spatial analysis identified two critical hotspots including a high-risk (1-star for most users) and moderate-risk (3–4 stars) location. The findings from various field studies, including public survey, conflict study and simulation, complemented iRAP diagnostics, providing the triangulated validation mechanism, and each other while enhancing the understanding of the crash mechanisms. Finally, this study contributes with an end-to-end framework for road safety assessment which bridges the gap between identification, diagnostic, field validation and crash mitigation. The results from the study area provide evidence of its validity and effectiveness and make a strong case for its use in urban areas in the other regions across the globe.