A GIS based traffic accident data collection, referencing and analysis framework for Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Municipality has identified the need for the development of an accident data collection, referencing, management and analysis system, for Abu Dhabi. This is part of a strategy to implement a GIS based Transportation Information and Management System comprising several components of which an accident management system would be one. This paper presents the main findings of the initial study, together with the proposed framework of the new system. In particular, the Paper discusses some of the results of a regional and international review of similar initiatives. The Paper also explains the method of using GPS to reference an accident location by using a GIS map, since the accurate identification of accident location was a critical element. The study is still underway and the final output is expected to be a workable GIS based accident data collection, referencing, management and analysis system. RESUME : La Municipalite d’Abu Dhabi a identifie le besoin de developper un systeme de collecte, de referencement, de gestion et d’analyse des donnees d'accidents pour Abu Dhabi. Cela fait partie d'une strategie visant a mettre en oeuvre un Systeme de Gestion et d’Information de Transport base sur le SIG comprenant plusieurs composants dont ferait partie un systeme de gestion d'accidents. La communication presente les decouvertes principales de l'etude initiale, ainsi que la structure proposee du nouveau systeme. La communication traite en particulier de certains des resultats d'une revue regionale et internationale d'initiatives semblables. La communication explique aussi la methode pour utiliser le GPS pour referencer l’emplacement d'un accident en employant une carte du SIG, puisque l'identification precise de l'emplacement d'un accident etait un element critique. L'etude est toujours en cours de realisation et on s'attend a ce que la production finale soit un systeme, base sur le SIG, de collecte, referencement, gestion et analyse des donnees d'accidents, qui fonctionne. highway authority. The Paper in particular highlights some of the results of a regional and international review, including a detailed comparison of accident data collection forms from around the world. The single biggest problem with the quality of accident data in Abu Dhabi has been the disregard to identify and record the precise location of the accident. Therefore one of the most important aspects of the study was to develop a practical method to achieve this as a fundamental data parameter. It was also decided to take advantage of latest technology in using electronic data capture and storage devices. The Paper explains the method of using GPS and GIS together to accurately reference an accident location on a GIS map using a portable device. The issues of accident data storage, database design, data retrieval and subsequent analysis are also discussed. Finally a framework is developed to tie all aspects of the AREST together, within the overall context of the TIMS. This framework is presented, as the basis for further development of the system in the future. In order to arrive at a practical new framework for a new and effective accident management framework for Abu Dhabi, a number of major preparatory tasks were undertaken as shown in Figure 1. Figure 1 Outline Methodology for Preparation of AREST