LAWRENCE, Kan. - University of Kansas researchers say empty semi-trucks are vulnerable to crosswind rollover crashes, and efforts are underway to minimize the risk.
University faculty and students reviewed truck crash records for 2005-2007, then tied that information to wind speed data collected at the time of the crash. Their research showed Kansas averaged more than 1,000 wind-related crashes for each of the three years.
"We have found that a 15 to 20 mile-an-hour crosswind will blow over an empty truck," said Tom Mulinazzi, professor of civil, environmental and architectural engineering.
A semi-truck hauling a full load can withstand much stronger crosswinds, up to 60 miles an hour.
To decrease the accident risk, the KU research team is creating several recommendations for KDOT to consider. One option is to tie real-time wind condition data from nearby weather stations to the use of dynamic message signs already in use at several points along I-70. The signs currently alert motorists of road closures during hazardous winter conditions.
"We are concerned about the number of accidents related to strong, gusty winds and in particular to the number and severity of truck blow-over crashes attributable to wind," said Leslie Spencer-Fowler, program manager of KDOTs Intelligent Transportation Systems Unit. "The KU study gives us important information, and we are exploring ways in which we can utilize our existing electronic message signs as one way to alert motorists to the potential for a wind-related accident."
