The model predicts that if a sober 25-year-old man, driving 80 mph (in a 70 mph zone) in a 2012 Ford Focus on a dry Dallas road at 2 pm is in an accident involving two cars, the chances that he dies are 2%. However, if alcohol is involved, but all other variables remain static, the chances of death increase to 10%. (Credit: Photographee.eu) The model predicts that if a sober 25-year-old man, driving 80 mph (in a 70 mph zone) in a 2012 Ford Focus on a dry Dallas road at 2 pm is in an accident involving two cars, the chances that he dies are 2%. However, if alcohol is involved, but all other variables remain static, the chances of death increase to 10%. (Credit: Photographee.eu)

Researchers at Southern Methodist University (SMU) have developed a predictability model that factors in certain variables, such as drunk driving and speeding, to determine how severe an accident would be.

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Steve Hallo

Steve Hallo is managing editor of PropertyCasualty360.com. He can be reached at [email protected]