At signalized intersections, many accidents can be ascribed to inappropriate driver braking maneuvers taking place under the influence of intersection layout characteristics such as the location of traffic signals. Decisive directions for locating traffic signals, however, cannot be found in current road design guidelines as empirical evidence is lacking. This paper provides much-needed insight into the impact of traffic signal location ondriver braking maneuvers based on data collected during an experimental test of bringing traffic signals closer to the stop line in Jeon-ju City, Korea. The study encompasses analysis of three facets: (1) stop line crossing behavior in yellow and red time, (2) braking point behavior defining the magnitude of driver braking maneuvers, and (3) formation of driver behavior maneuvers versus vehicle speed. In addition, a safety margin concept is introduced to analyze the impact of traffic signal location on driver braking maneuvers in terms of safety. The findings support the assumption underlying the study: traffic signal location does influence driver behaviorin various ways, while traffic safety at signalized intersection approaches in urban areas can be improved by bringing traffic signals closer to the stop line. For better practicability of these findings, the paper closesby formulating guidelines that can support decision makers involved in traffic signal installation at four-legged signalized intersections in urbanareas.
Abstract