2009-11-24T18:50:04Zhttp://conservancy.umn.edu/oai/request

oai:conservancy.umn.edu:59232008-04-21T20:19:19Zhdl_241

Munnich, Lee JrMore, Alec2008-04-21T20:19:18Z2008-04-21T20:19:18Z2008-02http://purl.umn.edu/5923This first in a series of Center for Excellence in Rural Safety (CERS) research summaries examines the current state of safety planning through interviews and a comprehensive review of the newly mandated strategic highway safety plans (SHSPs) and supporting documents from six states representing different U.S. regions: Alabama, Idaho, Maryland, Minnesota, Vermont, and Washington. The researchers took several steps to develop a knowledge base of existing conditions pertaining to safety planning in the six states. During the analysis, five key themes emerged: 1. A focus on changing driver behavior; 2. The importance of state-level public policy and political leadership; 3. The use of emerging technologies; 4. The importance of sustained, collaborative approaches; and 5. The use of measurement-driven approaches, which rely on enhanced data collection and new interpretive methodologies. In addition to these findings, case studies of each state provide a synopsis of certain aspects of their SHSPs. Recommendations concerning the SHSP development process and emphasis areas include: strengthening public engagement activities and initiatives to communicate the importance of roadway safety, reviewing the development structure and safety stakeholders involved, and continuing integration across agencies contributing to safety.Federal Highway Administrationen_USUniversity of Minnesota Center for Excellence in Rural SafetyImproving Rural Transportation Safety Report No. 1CTS 08-02DriversHighway safetyPublic healthRural transportationStrategic Highway Safety PlanTraffic safetyTransportation policyTransportation planningRural Transportation Safety and the Strategic Highway Safety Plan: An Examination of Select State Programs and PracticesReport