Evaluation of a procedure for reducing vehicle-tree accidents.

A procedure for reducing vehicle-tree accidents was evaluated. The procedure, developed by the Michigan Department of Transportation, consists of five steps: (1) preparing a base map and plotting roadway information, (2) assigning priorities for field verification, (3) field verifying the higher-risk road sections, (4) selecting appropriate treatments, and (5) performing thetreatments selected. The procedure was used in Albemarle and Prince William counties. The procedure was described and evaluated. Overall, the procedure was useful. Several changes were recommended in the procedure to reduce the time required to perform the task and to increase its effectiveness. It was suggested that the procedure be expanded to include other fixed-object, off-the-road accidents to increase the impact on roadside management. It was recommended that the revised procedure be considered for adoption by the Virginia Department of Transportation