Authors: Gang-Len Chang, Hua Xiang & Chi-Sheng Chou
Date: June 2004
Abstract:
This study has investigated the interrelations between crash rates, signal yellow times, driver characteristics and vehicle performance characteristics at signalized intersections, based on field observations of 732 drivers at nine intersections across five counties in Maryland. It has been found that driver responses during the yellow signal phase can be classified into four distinct types: “aggressive pass,” “conservative stop,” “normal stop,” and “normal pass.” Their response differences are due not only to discrepancies in individual characteristics, but also a variety of traffic environmental factors. The collective impacts of such factors have been evaluated with an ordered-probit model. In addition, based on the speed evolution data recorded from each observed driver, this study further analyzed the deceleration/ acceleration rates of drivers responding to yellow-light phases. Such information provides valuable data for computing the distribution of intersection dilemma zones under various types of driving populations and vehicle types.
Download (MD-04-SP308B4L-Dilemma-Zone-Warning-System-Phase-I-Report.pdf)