## 3 Methodology and Database  
The selection and implementation of the relevant methodology for this research is critical for constructing the GIS spatial analysis model. The application of this methodology implies the integration of spatial datasets into detailed sub-models and overarching models for territorial analysis. The foremost aim is to execute a comprehensive examination of the territory, aligned with the defined objective. The current study has formulated a unique research methodology that involves managing spatial databases and integrating them into various sub-models of spatial analysis. This methodology involves incorporating these databases into various spatial analysis sub-models, each distinct in its approach, including network analysis models and decision-making integration models. When analyzed in correlation, these sub-models reveal and suggest a complex spatial analysis model, specifically designed to identify areas with a high risk of road accidents. The proposed methodology is structured in three principal phases, as illustrated in Figure 1. Initially, the first phase is dedicated to the acquisition of spatial databases for the creation of a spatial analysis model. The subsequent phase centers on the development of cohesive GIS spatial analysis models, which are then integrated with statistical models within the GIS framework, aiming to achieve a systematically validated outcome. Finally, the third phase is concerned with the presentation and examination of the results, with a focus on identifying territorial hotspots linked to road accidents. This involves differentiating areas based on their impact and risk levels, categorizing them as either high impact, high risk or low impact, low risk zones. Each phase of the proposed methodological framework can be examined either as a standalone unit or as part of an integrated process within that stage, as well as in conjunction with successive stages. In this structure, each stage is designed to highlight and facilitate the development of the subsequent phase. The initial phase of the methodology focuses on establishing the spatial databases, which are essential for the development of the entire model. This phase can be characterized by two primary methods of data acquisition: direct and indirect. In direct acquisition, raw databases are collected, including spatial databases like the national road network, which is directly downloaded from the OSM server, and alphanumeric databases sourced from Traffic Police Directorate of Romanian Police. These alphanumeric databases are typically in table format and contain detailed information on the geographical location of each incident, as well as the type of incident recorded. These data are crucial in completing the spatial database, serving not only for the spatial localization of traffic incidents but also for their systematic structuring and classification according to the model's needs. The construction of spatial databases, critical for the modeling process, occurs in the indirect acquisition phase. This phase is characterized by the integrated management of databases, leveraging the functionalities of geoinformation software (ArcGIS Pro 3.2.2). The geocoding process is employed to determine the spatial location of each incident (261,821 incidents between 2011-2022), using their geographical coordinates. This leads to the creation of a digital spatial database with point geometry in the WGS 1984 projection. Considering both the national road network and the incident point locations are in WGS 1984 projection, and the spatial analysis targets Romanian territory, it was decided to reproject these databases into the Romania-specific Stereographic 1970 projection system (code 3844). This reprojection is necessary due to the investigation's focus on measuring risk in relation to the distance from incidents, with the metric scale of the Stereographic 1970 projection enabling more efficient integration into the network analysis database structures.