Business challenge
Road crashes result in an enormous human, economic and social cost. The Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety (CARRS-Q) is creating safer roadways and transport through high quality research, education and advocacy.
Our partners
Leadership team
- Position
- Principal Research Fellow
- Division / Faculty
- Faculty of Health
Our approach
Technology capability
Our researchers collate, analyse and interpret data from a range of sources to explore driver and road-user behaviours and attitudes. Data-driven decision making joins advanced modelling and simulation techniques to bring a deeper understanding of road-user behaviours.
Transdisciplinary projects
Research at CARRS-Q brings together specialists from psychology, science and engineering, public health, urban design and planning, law and justice, and creative industries. We’re exploring new frontiers and creating real change in road-user behaviour through maximised diversity of skill and expertise.
End-user engagement
We’re changing road user behaviour through public education and road safety advertising campaigns. From traditional media to contemporary digital solutions, our researchers develop and evaluate campaigns and messaging to address road-based behaviours and raise awareness.
Advanced driving simulator
Our driving simulator incorporates a complete Holden Commodore vehicle with working controls and instruments. The advanced driving simulator uses SCANeR™ studio software with eight computers, projectors and a motion platform that can move and twist in three dimensions. Drivers and passengers are immersed in a virtual environment that perfectly replicates the driving experience.
The advanced driving simulator is available for use by researchers and industry through contract or collaborative arrangements.
Impacts and outcomes
Influencing state-wide policy
CARRS-Q has been instrumental in the Queensland Government adopting new and revised road safety policies to protect vulnerable road users, including practices for cyclists: bicycle helmets, dismounting when crossing at signalised pedestrian crossings, the Minimum Passing Distance road rule, and safety at roundabouts. Changes for motorcyclists have included formalisation of Q-Ride and an enhanced motorcycle learner knowledge test. The Minimum Passing Distance evaluation was the first of its kind conducted in Australia and has been cited by policymakers and advocates in other states as providing evidence for introducing this rule elsewhere.
Shaping future transport
By focusing on patterns of cooperation between road users, our research investigates road safety benefits and human factor aspects of future Intelligent Transport Systems technologies, including connected-automated vehicles, e‑bikes and mobility as services. This includes the design, use and assessment of information systems and in-vehicular technologies, as well as their simulation, real-world impact and cost-benefit analysis.
Contact us
If you've got a challenge or problem that can benefit from our research expertise, contact us today.