Every year the County Council’s Accident Database is analysed to identify junctions and routes where a high number of accidents are occurring.

Each site is assessed using a standardised calculation, which generates a score based on set criteria in line with our Local Transport Plan Targets.

In summary this calculation is based on: The number of users against the number and type of casualties occurring in a 3-year period, showing us a road users ‘exposure to risk’.

The Hotspot List is then compiled in priority order, with the highest priority sites being ranked with the lowest hotspot number. Although this is a broad-brush approach to accident hotspot identification it is very effective in identifying the majority of problem sites around the County, we also carry out specific causation investigations which allow us to look in to other areas such as accidents; on bends, in adverse weather, involving animals and many many more.

The hotspot list normally identifies the top 400-500 A and B road sites in the County where (in line with our targets) the highest rate return can be achieved through a reduction in injury accidents. The role of the Accident Investigation Engineer is to interrogate this information, and investigate/identify any feasible remedial measures that could be achieved, using the Road Safety budget or Capital Programme.

Road Safety Schemes are put forward in to the County’s Priority Assessment System, and if successful, developed and installed by Capital Funding.