Research: Traffic Operations and Safety Research Projects
Examination of Crash Trends in the Southeastern U.S.: Analysis of Fatal Crashes (RP 07-01)
To goal of this study is to evaluate crash results from a previous pooled fund study, summarize crash trends, and use this information to develop probabilistic models for explaining / predicting variation in fatal crash severity. This research will allow the Georgia DOT to evaluate corridors for safety issues and implement countermeasures to minimize exposure to severe crash conditions. The research will included a review of recent countermeasure research in the United States and the applicable conclusions arrived from those studies. This study will not replicate any of this recent research, but will focus funds on applications that have not been comprehensively evaluated. The severity of future crashes on Georgia highways can potentially be reduced as a result of this research effort.
For further information, please contact David Jared at 404-363-7569.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Converging Chevron Pavement Markings in Reducing Vehicle Speeds (SRS 07-13)
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of chevron markings in reducing vehicle speeds. This study will investigate the effectiveness of chevron markings at high-speed locations, in particular two-lane freeway-to-freeway directional ramps. The evaluation will be based on a statistical comparison at pre-selected sites of speeds before and after the installation of the chevron markings. Crash history will also be considered as a supplementary indicator of the effectiveness of the chevron markings. To investigate whether the speed reduction, if any, may be attributed to the installation of the chevron markings, factors such as the traffic conditions, weather, time of day and day of week, road conditions, driver population and traffic pattern, etc. will be taken into consideration through the use of diverse sampling and control ramps.
For further information, please contact David Jared at 404-363-7569.
Motor Vehicle Crash Analysis: Descriptive Trend Analysis and Assessment of Potential Data-Driven Approaches for Prioritizing Improvements to Georgia Roadways (RP 07-15)
The study objectives are to (1) conduct a descriptive trend analysis (including maps) of the Georgia motor vehicle crash data from 2001-2006; and (2) assess potential data-driven approaches for use in the prioritizing improvements to Georgia roadways given currently available data sources. By identifying the various factors involved in crashes under specific circumstances, more effective countermeasures can be put in place.
Given the extensive roadway network in the state, it is imperative to use the state-of-the-art analysis methods to define priorities for roadway improvements. The use of methods to reduce errors such as regression-to-the-mean and over-emphasis of low volume roads will result in better utilization of limited funds. Based on examples provided from other states, the use of frequencies and rates often excluded the sites with potential for safety improvement based on both severity and cost. It is expected that through analysis of existing data and the introduction of new methods of analysis in the state will uncover new opportunities for safety improvement resulting in lives saved, injuries avoided, and cost-savings.
For further information, please contact David Jared at 404-363-7569.
Development and Evaluation of Devices Designed to Minimize Deer-vehicle Collisions (Phase II) (RP 07-02)
This follow up study will use data on deer sensory abilities obtained in Phase I to develop strategies designed to alter white-tailed deer behavior along roadways and avert DVC’s. The following strategies are to be evaluated: (1) retrofitted alterations to existing woven wire highway fencing to reduce white-tailed deer access to right-of-ways and to eliminate road crossings by deer; (2) alternative road striping as a visual deterrent to prevent white-tailed deer from crossing roads in the presence of vehicles; and (3) tactile barriers to reduce white-tailed deer access to roadway.
For more information on both phases of this research, please contact David Jared at 404.363.7569.
Development of Optimal Ramp-Metering Strategies (RP 07-22)
Development of an optimal system-wide freeway ramp-metering strategies taking advantage of recent advances in traffic flow theory and simulation.
For further information, please contact David Jared at 404-363-7569.
Evaluation of Intersection Countermeasures on High-Speed Rural Multi-Lane Facilities (RP 07-19)
Evaluate the effectiveness of several proposed safety treatments at two intersections. The evaluation will consider both crash data and surrogate safety measures.
For further information, please contact David Jared at 404-363-7569.