Traffic signals play a key role in intersection safety, and compliance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) is widely recognized as essential in ensuring that a traffic signal operates in a manner that enhances rather than diminishes the overall safety of an intersection. To achieve intersection operation that is safer than just "good," merely complying with MUTCD standards and guidance may not be enough. MUTCD sets minimum standards that agencies strive to meet but rarely exceed, even though doing more than the minimum can significantly reduce intersection-related crashes. This paper aims to show how, when properly applied, some tools and techniques can significantly improve safety at signalized intersections without requiring an accompanying decrease in capacity or in the convenience of the traveling public.
Abstract