How can we assess the role of driver distraction in crashes? Feasibility of using the Australian National Crash In-depth Study (ANCIS) for collecting distraction data

This study examined the feasibility of collecting distraction-related crash data through the Australian National Crash In-depth Study (ANCIS). Specifically, the amount and type of self-report data that can be collected regarding the role of distraction in crashes was investigated through the ANCIS driver interview process, and conclusions were drawn regarding the feasibility of this method to collect accurate data on the issue. A total of 21 Victorian ANCIS case drivers participated in the pilot study. Of these, seven completed the distraction survey. The remaining participants did not complete the survey due to their stated inability to recall the circumstances leading up to their crash. This paper presents the findings of the study with respect to the type of distractions involved and the immediate circumstances pre-crash. While pilot study data suggest that the completeness and accuracy of the distraction data collected through the ANCIS interviews is likely to be limited for seriously injured vehicle occupants, the method nonetheless represents a highly cost-effective option for collecting distraction-related crash information for a subset of those, more severe, crash types captured through the ANCIS study protocol.