The Extent and Nature of Motor Vehicle and Buggy Crashes

Abstract

Crashes involving motor vehicles and buggies are often catastrophic for the drivers and passengers of the buggies. Recent safety recommendations focus on making buggies more visible; however, this strategy may not address the primary causes of buggy and motor vehicle crashes. To understand what safety recommendations might be most effective, we must understand the scope and nature of these crashes. We used The Diary, a monthly Amish periodical, to gather information on crashes between motor vehicles and buggies from 2015 through 2022. Crashes are reported by Amish scribes from across the United States and Canada. We recorded the victim demographics, the result of the crash for the victims, the cause of the crash, and the point of impact. Over one quarter of the crashes resulted in a serious injury or death. Crashes due to motor vehicle driver error are the most common, and these crashes are likely to be rear-end impacts. When Amish buggy drivers are at fault, broadside hits are most common. Implementing signage or flashing lights in areas with high buggy traffic can make motor vehicle drivers more aware. Infrastructure changes such as widening of roads could allow horses, buggies, and motor vehicles to travel together more safely. Moreover, automobile technological changes provide a potential safeguard against rear-end buggy crashes through safety features that automatically warn drivers of obstructions in front of their vehicles.

Keywords: Amish, slow-moving vehicle, injury, fatality, infrastructure changes

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