What is the relationship between intangible and tangible reference points?

The relationship between intangible and tangible reference points is accurately captured by the idea that intangible points must relate to tangible reference points. Tangible reference points are physical, observable objects or locations, such as road signs, street lights, or intersections. In traffic crash investigation, these serve as clear indicators that can be measured and referenced directly.

Intangible reference points, on the other hand, may encompass variables like driver perceptions, emotions, or reactions that cannot be physically measured but can influence behaviors on the road. These intangible factors are critical for understanding driver actions, decision-making processes, or even the context in which a crash occurred.

When evaluating a traffic crash, it's essential to connect these intangible points to the tangible reference points to build a comprehensive understanding of the incident. For example, a driver’s view of a stop sign (a tangible reference) might be influenced by the time of day or weather conditions (intangible reference), which could affect their ability to respond appropriately. Thus, their relationship is not only significant but necessary for thorough investigations.