Data Collection
There are many ways to collect data on measured road conditions. Here are some common methods:
1. Visual inspections: This involves simply looking at the condition of the road surface and making a judgment about its condition. This is often done by trained engineers or professionals who are familiar with what to look for.
2. Measuring devices: Several devices can measure various aspects of road conditions, such as potholes, cracks, and roughness. These devices can be mounted on vehicles or can be handheld.
3. Surveys: Surveys are another way to collect data on road conditions. This involves asking people who use the roads regularly about their experiences and perceptions of the condition of the roads.
4. Data from maintenance records: Maintenance records can be a valuable source of information on road conditions. These records can provide insight into which road areas need repair or improvement.
5. Camera images: Cameras can capture images of road conditions. This data can be used to create maps or to track changes over time.2
Examples
Study: Pothole Damage Costs U.S. Drivers $3B a Year
In one study, researchers analyzed data from over 1,000 traffic accidents in the United States. They found that potholes were a factor in nearly 10% of all accidents. Cracks and other road defects were also common causes of accidents. Another study looked at the relationship between traffic accidents and the condition of the road surface. The researchers found that poor road conditions were a factor in over 25% of all traffic accidents in the United States. Both of these studies show that poor road conditions are a major contributing factor to traffic accidents. Therefore, drivers should be aware of these risks and take extra care when driving on roads that are in poor condition.
https://www.insurancejournal.com/magazines/mag-features/2016/03/21/401900.htm