This report shows the possibilities for improving traffic safety on the Trans European Road Network (TERN) by harmonisation of fixed traffic signs and road markings in EU countries. The study first focused on differences in road signing between EU countries, then assessed the effect of these differences on traffic safety from the viewpoint of costs and benefits. Thereafter, the work developed four harmonization scenarios. Finally, institutional analysis was undertaken to elucidate the implementation steps and EU actions for harmonisation. Specifically, this subproject of IMPROVER proceeded with the following Work Package structure: • WP 4.1 comprised a review of earlier harmonisation work and research at supra-national level and a major survey of road signing practices among EU countries. It identified safety critical and institutional aspects of road signing between EU countries. • WP 4.2 evaluated and classified differences in road signing based on their driver behavioural effects. This produced a list of harmonisation needs. • WP 4.3 identified harmonisation measures in different time spans and estimated probable costs and safety benefits of these measures. The basis for the cost-benefit results were estimations based on rational assumptions; the aim was to get an impression of the utility of the measures. • WP 4.4 elaborated further the results from the workshops among partners and from the earlier Work Packages, creating four harmonisation scenarios including recommendations on how to improve traffic safety on the TERN. • WP 4.5 showed how the scenarios and recommended harmonization measures should be carried out and who should take the initiative. The total number of fatal accidents on the TERN was estimated to be almost 5,000 per annum and the length of the TERN approximately 70,000 km. The harmonization of road signs and markings among EU countries may possibly prevent a lot of road deaths on the TERN by means of the scenarios, actions and recommendations mentioned in this report. (Author/publisher) For the other IMPROVER reports see http://www.bast.de/nn_622282/DE/Publikationen/Download-Berichte/unterse…
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