摘要: |
Since the development of the United States Interstate highway system in the 1950s, crashes related to drivers traveling in the direction opposite of the legal flow of traffic, or wrong-way, have posed a significant concern for transportation officials and policy makers. Wrong-way driving incidents are prevalent, and many times the driver will correct his or her actions shortly after entering the roadway. However, wrong-way driving related crashes do occur but are not a substantial percentage of the total number of crashes in Kansas. However, many times wrong-way driving crashes result in at least one serious injury or fatality and subsequently becomes a high-profile crashes. Limited research currently exist, however a resurgence of interest including a recent NCHRP report demonstrates the continued need to investigate methods to prevent wrong-way crashes.
Through an initial study performed by K-State on wrong-way driving, the research team has identified gaps in knowledge which this project is expected to fulfill. This research project has multiple objective all of which relate to ways Kansas can reduce wrong-way driving incidents and crashes. The first objective is to identify interstate-on ramps that have experienced a significant number of wrong-way driving crashes and what geometric characteristics are present. Secondly, the research team wants to seek expert opinions, potential strategies, and feedback for wrong-way driving through a state-wide traffic safety conference. Finally, the research team will evaluate two to three wrong-way driving countermeasures through a before-after analysis in the field. |