This paper evaluates a remote weather information system (RWIS), used to help update road and travel information. The system's communication devices include: (1) variable message signs; (2) linear radio systems; (3) road and travel telephone numbers; and (4) road and travel information on television and radio broadcasts. The main requirements are to: (1) determine real-time road and travel conditions on rural roads; and (2) identify drivers' desired road and travel information. The system has a surface sensor and several atmospheric condition sensors, which communicate information to a remote processing unit (RPU). The study area, where the RWIS was tested, was a 41-mile section of the Interstate 80 highway between Laramie and Cheyenne in Wyoming, USA. During winter, this area is liable to high winds, poor pavement conditions, limited visibility, and often hazardous driving conditions. Data were obtained from the analysis of accident records, and from road user and speed surveys. The study's results are discussed in some detail. 60% of the accidents occurred during an estimated 10% of the time that road and travel conditions were poor. Recommendations are made for reducing the number and severity of winter accidents.
Abstract