The Feasibility of Implementing the Data Analysis and Reporting Techniques (DART) Package in Virginia

About the report:

This project was undertaken for the Virginia Department of Transportation Safety to assess the feasibility of implementing the Data Analysis and Reporting Techniques (DART) computer software system in Virginia. Following a review of available literature, discussion of system implementation and use with federal and state personnel, and a survey of 23 states in which DART has been installed it was concluded that although the system has its shortcomings DART can be successfully employed as a tool for the analysis of accident data. However, DART must be installed at a site where three key ingredients for successful system use concurrently reside: adequate technical resources, user interest, and management support. Virginia lacks the capabilities of the DART system and could benefit by is installation and application to accident data analysis for highway safety planning purposes. Although there is no perfect site for installation of the DART system in Virginia, the Department of Highways and Transportation (VDH&T) appears to be the most promising candidate. It is recommended that the Virginia Department of Transportation Safety should solicit a proposal for implementation of the DART system from the VDH&T, support installation of DART by underwriting its cost with federal §402 safety funds, and organize a coordinating committee of traffic safety data users and technical personnel to assist in the implementation of the system and promote, monitor, and evaluate DART once installed.

Authors