Conceptualizing road safety management through complex territorialized systems: Context and goals

Abstract

Despite many efforts to prevent traffic accidents, road accident statistics remain a cause of concern throughout the world. After analyzing the possible reasons for this in France, this study seeks to extend the issue of Road Safety to that of a global territorial issue which responds to the characteristics of a complex spatialized system. The methodology used in the ANR CRITERION program merges both interdisciplinary and multi-stakeholder objectives based on an information system that combines approaches formalized by scientists and experts in the field. This methodology combines them by comparing the representations structured around explicit data models and the more empirical concepts expressed by technical experts in charge of local public action. The tool provides a user-friendly mapping formulation of the opinions and conclusions of the partners highlighting the possible correlations between forms and characteristics of the area, road safety measures, accidents and the infrastructure observed in the field. It makes it possible to identify, spatialize, qualify and compare the areas to be processed. This application seeks to elevate the road safety issue and place it among the strategic concerns of territorial management, beyond its current and still minor involvement in urban development plans.