What we Do?

TRL holds some of the most extensive and detailed accident databases in the world, covering accident causation factors, vehicle deformation and resulting injuries. Through the applicaton of complex analyses to these datasets, we inform local and national government decision-making on where best to apply resources. Using up-to-the-minute technologies such as laser scanning and 3D computer modelling for incidents means that detailed 'at the scene' data can be captured quickly for later analysis in greater detail.

TRL is at the forefront of research looking at reducing motorcycle casualties. For example, the TRL DataBike has been developed to capture information about the road environment and rider behaviour. This specially adapted motorcycle can be ridden along routes with a history of accidents to collect information from a motorcycle rider's perspective.

Reducing Injuries

Our engineers have a global reputation for growing the industry's understanding of vehicle safety. We've developed anthropomorphic test dummies for both road and rail crashes. Applying the latest advances in computer simulation and finite element analysis, we've designed complex computer models of vehicles and their components, as well as the human body - enabling us to fully explore issues before taking them to our leading-edge impact test facilities.

TRL is widely recognised for establishing protocols for the Euro NCAP star rating system. This approach is used by manufacturers and consumers to rate and compare vehicle crash protection. Allied to this type of work, our innovative research into child restraints has improved their design and demonstrated why children need to be seated in a specially designed child seat until they're aged 11.

Designing Safer Roads

From motorways to country lanes, our teams are working to ensure vehicles stay on the carriageway and drive at appropriate speeds. Using our advanced driving simulators and private test-track facilities means we're able to test our innovative solutions for enhancing road safety before applying them in real-life situations.

Through a major European study, EuroRAP, we have detailed information on the safety of all main roads in Great Britain, allowing detailed comparison to be made of various design features.

We've taken our knowledge of safe road layouts and successfully applied it to a range of organisations, from leading commercial businesses and transport operators, to private car-parking and logistics firms. This enables them to work towards reducing the risks of transport-related workplace accidents in a structured and sensible framework.

Changing Attitudes and Behaviour

Engineering measures can only go so far in reducing casualties. We also need to understand the way people behave and their underlying attitudes. TRL has researched all types of road users: drivers, motorcyclists, pedestrians, cyclists, children and disabled people. Our psychologists use complex models to better understand what can be done to influence road user behaviour. Our research on adolescents, for example, has mapped out their attitudes to various unsafe behaviours and identified how we might best target education and publicity.

Our innovative research has also identified new psychological methodologies for traffic calming such as making a road appear narrower than it actually is. This changed perception of the road influences driver behaviour and is an effective means of reducing excessive speeds.

If you're interested in learning more about the topics covered in this section, or you can't find what you're looking for and would like to talk to someone in detail about a specific topic, please complete the enquiry form at the foot of this page - one of our experts will contact you as soon as possible.