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Citation |
Parsonson PS, Walker DJ. Transp. Res. Rec. 1992; 1368: 27-30. |
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Copyright |
(Copyright © 1992, Transportation Research Board, National Research Council, National Academy of Sciences USA, Publisher SAGE Publishing) |
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DOI |
unavailable |
PMID |
unavailable |
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Abstract |
Current standards and practices have been evaluated for the display to be shown to drivers when control equipment at a signalized intersection malfunctions. Documents setting forth current good engineering practice were reviewed; signalized intersections were inspected in metropolitan Atlanta; and eight traffic engineering agencies were interviewed. The "Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices" (MUTCD) describes flashing yellow/red as "normal"; however, two other primary references caution that this may be inappropriate and hazardous if the minor street lacks sight distance or traffic volume on the major street is moderate or heavy. Ten intersections were readily found that failed to meet AASHTO standards for sight distance but were programmed for flashing yellow/red. The agencies stated that flashing red/red during rush hours would produce intolerable congestion during the estimated 10 min needed for a traffic-control police officer to reach the scene. It was recommended that serious consideration be given to changing the MUTCD to acknowledge the potential hazard of flashing yellow/red and to make mention of flashing red/red. Traffic engineering agencies should evaluate all signalized intersections that use flashing yellow/red and identify as "critical" those that would operate with difficulty during rush hours or that have inadequate sight distance for a minor-street approach. Remote monitoring of signal status, selective use of Right Turn Only blank-out signs, and a public information program were recommended. Research is needed on accident rates during malfunction flash. Language: en |