The chapter on the value of efficient roadway lighting considers that it allows road users, both pedestrians and motorists, to proceed with greater safety, comfort, and convenience at night. It is extremely important that motorists, whose operational requirements exceed that of pedestrians, have a clear visual scene of their surroundings. Motorists' visual requirements are related to their driving tasks. What drivers must see to operate their motor vehicles satisfactorily and how to provide for the visibility required is the challenge facing the traffic engineer. Standards have been set nationally for lighting practice and when followed should provide adequate visibility. Vehicle headlights alone cannot completely provide for the night-time motorist's visual driving needs. Studies have shown that beneficial results from providing fixed lighting occur in both urban major streets and on freeways. Urban areas have reductions of 21% to 36% in night-time accidents while reductions of up to 40% in freeway accidents have been predicted. Rural studies indicate improved safety as well.
Abstract