Before and after studies of the effects of pavement edge markings on accident rates were undertaken at four locations in connecticut. It was concluded that: (1) the painted line on two-lane and four-lane divided highways affects the lateral position of vehicles, (2) some reduction in accidents leaving the roadway on the right is apparent on the four-lane divided highway after an edge marking is placed, (3) the presence of an edge line along roadways where pedestrains must use shoulders because of the absence of sidewalks offers additional security to both pedestrains and drivers, (4) the outer edge line provides pavement delineation and a point for a driver to focus his eyes when faced with oncoming headlights, and (5) markings have some influence on operating speed and driver confidence.
Abstract