Citation

Eck RW, Lechok SA. Transp. Res. Rec. 1980; 753: 14-21.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1980, Transportation Research Board, National Research Council, National Academy of Sciences USA, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

A questionnaire was used to determine truck drivers' perceptions of mountain driving problems and truck escape ramps. A postage-paid self-mailer form was used in a variety of situations. Some questionnaires were mailed to drivers, some were distributed at truck terminals in West Virginia, and others were distributed at truck stops along Interstate highways. Difficulties encountered in obtaining a reasonable response rate are described. The questionnaire, which was completed by 180 drivers, sought information on driver age and experience and on the nature of trucking operations. Other questions dealt with mountain driving problems such as gear selection, signing, brake inspection, and use of brake-check areas. The final section of the form examined driver attitudes toward truck escape ramps. It was found difficult to obtain information from truck drivers by using standard survey techniques; a personal-contact approach was necessary. Questionnaire results indicated that load carried and weather conditions were important factors in gear selection on downgrades. Speed-limit signs on problem downgrades had little effect on gear selection by drivers. Drivers strongly supported the use of brake-check areas at summits of grades; however, a significant number indicated that they do not inspect their brakes regularly. Equipment failure and inexperience in mountain driving were the most frequently cited reasons for runaway-truck accidents. More than 90 percent of the drivers said that they would use an escape ramp if they were out of control on a downgrade. Some drivers fear that ramps will cause either personal injury or property damage or both.