An analysis of crashes, speeds and traffic flow was done during the reconstruction of the “Big I” I-25/I-40 interchange in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Work zone traffic safety, speed, and saturation flow-rate were assessed. Researchers analyzed the characteristics of crashes, proper and improper traffic control methods, the efficacy of innovation in speed signs and monitored the combined effect of numerous physical and operational factors on traffic flow rates in urban freeway construction areas. Recommendations were made for reducing construction zone crashes. The main safety goal of work/construction zones is to reduce exposure to construction duration and traffic. The study found that as saturation flow rates increased, collisions increase. A cause and effect relationship was not found between innovative speed signs and a reduction in motorist speed. Motorists don’t want to limit speed unless physical conditions force motorists to acknowledge that a speed reduction is necessary, unless a highway patrol officer is enforcing speed regulations, or unless there is any other equivalent of a 2X4 to the motorist’s head. (Author/publisher)
Abstract