The role of the intelligent transport system in providing driver information on weather conditions on the road is described. The maintenance and routine checking systems that should be put in place when road weather information systems are installed can be dealt with by the manufacturer. It is suggested that the USA has a more advanced understanding of the importance of integrating weather and traffic data in a single display or system. Most road weather monitoring technology emerged from the need to address winter maintenance issues and a perception remains that such systems will lie dormant for a considerable portion of the year. This is a deterrent to investment. Information about flooding or high winds or addition of a traffic data or air quality monitoring capability can alter this perception. Non-intrusive measurement of the friction values of the road surface can be used to provide speed advisory messages on bends and other places with a risk of aquaplaning. Road weather information systems are shown to be highly cost effective.
Abstract