01334323

Component

Work zones are dangerous to drivers and workers; 720 people died in work zones in 2008. Proper traffic control devices can provide positive guidance and reduce driver confusion. Work zone devices such as channelizing devices and changeable message signs are often large and costly. Evaluating their effectiveness on test tracks or in real work zones is expensive and sometimes testing these devices, such as those that force lane maneuvers, is just too risky in the real world. This paper illustrates how the Texas Transportation Institute has utilized both a full-sized and desktop simulator to test new and emerging work zone traffic control device applications. In the past 5 years, through simulation, TTI has successfully tested message content and reading time for portable changeable message signs, has evaluated the effectiveness of temporary horizontal markings and temporary overhead lane assignment guide signs for lane shift applications, and has examined the visibility and driver preference of longitudinal channelizing devices versus barrel in lane closures on urban streets. These studies have resulted in changes to standards and practices in Texas and nationally.

01329018

11-1515

English

13p

2011

Transportation Research Board 90th Annual Meeting

DVD

Figures (2) ; Photos (10) ; References (9)

Automobile drivers; Fatalities; Highway safety; Lane changing; Lane closure; Lane use control signals; Road construction; Road markings; Traffic channelization; Traffic control devices; Traffic simulation; Urban areas; Validity; Variable message signs; Work zones

Texas

Highways; Operations and Traffic Management; Safety and Human Factors; I73: Traffic Control; I82: Accidents and Transport Infrastructure; I83: Accidents and the Human Factor

Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting 2011 Paper #11-1515

TRIS, TRB

Feb 17 2011 5:50PM