This literature study is part of the `Category, layout and use of roads' study. A selection was made of specific studies into roads outside built-up areas (with the exception of motorways), and of general research into the influence of road characteristics and of road types on behaviour through observation. The literature shows that one element is shared amongst the studies: the road structure is of great importance, especially the width, the organisation into carriageways and lanes, and the road course. The surroundings and land use type along the road are also important factors. Most of the research related to driving speed. Observation of the road and surroundings can have an effect on the road users' behaviour in different ways. Three possibilities to influence road users' behaviour are distinguished: (1) Using easily visible parts of the road and immediate surroundings the road user is assisted in his task; (2) Parts of the road and immediate surroundings offer an impression of what lies ahead; and (3) the road impression elicits a state of mind. Although it is not yet certain what classification road users would make themselves, it seems advisable to take the identification of the road type as starting point with the selection of visible measures.
Abstract