An innovative application of time-lapse video recording is used to assist in an evaluation of a highway safety improvement. The improvement is an icy-curve warning system near Fredonyer Summit in northern California that activates real-time motorist warnings via extinguishable message signs, based on weather readings collected from road weather information systems. A measure of effectiveness is whether motorist speed is reduced as a result of real-time warnings to drivers. Why indirect speed measurement with video was preferred over radar for this case is discussed, as is how specific methodological issues related to the custom-built equipment, including camera location and orientation, distance benchmarking, and data collection and reduction. Theoretical and empirical accuracy measurements show that the video surveillance trailers yield results comparable to radar and, hence, would be applicable for studies in which speed change is measured. Because this particular technology had not been used previously, several lessons are documented that may help determine where and how similar equipment may be optimally used in future studies.
Abstract