Building the European Road Safety Observatory. SafetyNet. Deliverable 5.5, Glossary of data variables for fatal and accident causation databases

SafetyNet work package 5 (WP5), in the creation of two in-depth European accident databases, has produced a comprehensive database glossary to help inform both those directly involved in the work package and those who will use the final data and analysis results. The final version of the glossary can be regarded as a repository of information generated during the completion of the task and as such combines to provide a ‘Manual’ for the data collection and data use within the work package and externally. Information contained within the glossary extends from the early development stages of the task to the final review, a duration of approximately 4.5 years. The complete glossary has been designed to provide all the information relevant for a thorough understanding of the SafetyNet WP5 task. This information can be used in a number of ways as the complete document combines to produce a manual for data input (also referred to as ‘coding’), data analysis and the understanding of any analysis by external parties The SafetyNet WP5 glossary provides information in 6 key areas, all of which build into a complete picture of the WP5 project as a whole, the 6 key areas in turn provide information on glossary use, data Limitations and restrictions, the data variables, accident classification system (GDV), SafetyNet accident causation system (SNACS) and Database usage The glossary is intended to be used as complete reference material covering all of the aspects listed in the previous paragraph. As such the glossary should be used as a guide to understanding the task and any analysis derived from the WP5 data. The glossary however, is not a specific tool for conducting full analysis as only illustrative details of data limitation and restrictions are included. These will be discussed in more detail and should be fully understood before work is undertaken as misuse could lead to misinterpretation of any results.