This paper covers a range of devices and reflective systems that are currently being studied, promoted or developed as low-cost devices at low-volume railroad-highway crossings at grade (grade crossings) that do not have automatic warning systems, i.e., passive grade crossings. Most are based on the concept of greater use and more effective placement of retroreflective materials that give drivers more awareness of the crossing. In Kansas, USA, six rural rail-highway grade crossings on state highways were selected to demonstrate five new, low-cost, passive warning systems. In Ohio, extensive studies using the Conrail Shield and highly retroreflective tape on four ideas of the crossbuck post was being conducted. In Virginia, a study of the best ways to reflectorize grade crossing posts have been conducted. These will be discussed. The authors have made studies of vehicle headlamp illumination patterns, retroreflective materials, and drivers' visual needs at night. These have been tied together and related to drivers' visual needs and to a series of recommendations for optimum use and placement of retroreflective devices at rail grade crossings to reduce drivers' risk, particularly at night. Based on several research studies and over 35 years of experience studying the safety problems of rail-highway crossings at grade, the authors present a proposed, low-cost program to reduce crash risk, particularly at night. (A)
Samenvatting