If the idea of an obstacle is broadly interpreted every object which is in the way of a vehicle can be regarded as an obstacle. According to this definition all road users are also obstacles. In this literature study only exclusive fixed objects along the highway, such as lighting poles and columns for fly overs are considered. All of these have a useful function, but can produce danger for the road users by their position and design. It is established that the presence of obstacles on road shoulders increases the number and severity of collisions with obstacles. A literature review has been carried out on the behaviour in collisions of fixed objects which are on road shoulders. In principle research is focussed on the creation of a safe road shoulder by (1) the construction of safety fences, (2) the protection of the other obstacles by so called obstacle safety devices, (3) the construction of break-aways and base slip-joints, and (4) making the road shoulder free of obstacles. In a second part of the paper tables and figures are presented. See also B 14666
Abstract