Best Practices for Road Weather Management Version 2.0
Title:
Idaho Storm Warning System Operational Test
Abstract:
The Storm Warning Project was initiated in 1993 as a result of a large number of serious traffic crashes that occurred during periods of low visibility on I-84 in southeastern Idaho between 1988 and 1993. The purpose of the project was to determine if visibility sensors and the resultant information supplied to drivers on roadway message signs would reduce vehicle speeds to safe levels as warranted by weather conditions. The project was conducted in two phases. The objectives of Phase I were to determine if the visibility sensors provide accurate visibility measurements, determine which sensor is most reliable and most cost effective, and establish baseline driver behavior for vehicles in the test area. The objectives of Phase II were to assess whether the DMSs would reduce vehicle speed during periods of low visibility, determine if the sensor systems could provide usable data for Idaho Transportation Department personnel managing the dynamic message signs, and assess the relationship between vehicle speed and weather factors such as low visibility, high winds, or poor road conditions. This research finds that information provided to drivers during periods of poor weather encouraged them to reduce their speeds more than if the information were not provided.
Source(s):
University of Idaho, Boise State University and Meyer Mohaddes Associates, Prepared for the Idaho Transportation Department
https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/14524/dot_14524_DS1.pdf
Date: 2000
Author:
Kyte, Khatib, Shannon, Kitchener
Keywords:
Dynamic Message Sign (DMS)
Traveler information
Visibility
Speed
Mobility
Adverse weather
Driver behavior
Wind
Pavement condition
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