The effect of traffic flow improvements on driver attitudes towards pavement markings and other traffic control devices and pedestrian safety.

To learn more about the traffic-related actions, awareness, and observations of drivers in North Carolina, a survey was developed and administered to a sample of 100 licensed drivers who are residents of North Carolina. Of the 100 drivers in the sample, exactly one-half were male and one-half were female. One-fifth were 25 years of age or younger; 10 percent had been driving 5 years or less; 70 percent had been driving more than 10 years; and 75 percent learned basic driving skills in high school. For purposes of reporting findings, drivers were split into two age groups: Younger (up to and including 25 years of age) and older (over 25 years of age). Based upon the results, the following observations, which may have nationwide driver training and roadway maintenance implications, are made: (1) a significant proportion of respondents stated that they are unaware that left turns on red are not permitted in North Carolina; (2) a significant proportion of respondents stated that they interpret STOP signs as YIELD signs; (3) a significant proportion of respondents stated that they believe that STOP LINES are not clearly marked; a significant proportion of respondents stated that they are frequently forced to walk around vehicles stopped in sidewalks; (3) significant proportion of the respondents stated that they frequently observe vehicles not slowing down at YIELD signs and not stopping at STOP signs; and (4) although differences in responses exist between male and female respondents, the most significant differences are found between younger and older drivers, with younger drivers always exhibiting a less favorable behaviour. Conclusions: (1) the behavior of a significant proportion of drivers is dangerous not only to themselves, but also to other road users, and pedestrians; (2) from a safety standpoint, significant proportions of drivers either ignore traffic control devices or interpret the meaning to suit their own needs; and (3) the attempt to achieve transportation, economic and environmental goals through traffic capacity improvements can, but does not have to, compete with attempts to improve traffic and pedestrian safety. (A) For the covering abstract of the conference see ITRD no 207828. The reprints are also available at the web - http://www.vti.se/pdf/reports/K18APart1.pdf; http://www.vti.se/pdf/reports/K18APart2.pdf and http://www.vti.se/pdf/reports/K18APart3.pdf.