Identification of Major Road Influence Area Using NDS Data

Abstract

Crashes at rural intersection make up almost one-third of rural crashes. Many studies have focused on the minor stream driver since they are typically the ones who initiate the sequence of events leading to a crash, such as failure to yield to traffic control. However, the actions of the mainline road driver can influence crash outcome and severity. For instance, an alert major street driver can take the necessary maneuvers to avoid a crash or lessen the severity.This study used NDS data to assess the number of major approach drivers who demonstrate a measureable response to an upcoming intersection. A binary model was developed to relate response point to roadway, driver, and environmental characteristics. The result from this study showed that about 32% of mainline drivers at the high speed rural minor street stop controlled intersections showed a measurable response. The majority of drivers responded 80 to 240 meters upstream of the intersection. The relationship between other characteristics and response was also modeled.Results can be used to indicate where drivers react to an upcoming minor street intersection which can inform sign and countermeasure placement. Additionally it demonstrates a method to which could be used to assess rural intersection countermeasures. For instance, a number of agencies in the US are utilizing intelligent transportation system countermeasures such as intersection collision warning systems. Understanding where drivers are likely to respond can help in placing these types of countermeasures.Results also have implications for connected and autonomous vehicles. If application developers understand how a mainline driver reacts to the presence of an intersection, it can guide warning systems for the minor approach vehicle. For instance, detecting a change in speed of the major approach driver could signify the mainline driver is aware of the minor street vehicle while lack of response could trigger an alert for the minor street driver. This is particularly helpful in assessing on-coming vehicle speed and gap selection are problematic for drivers at minor stop-controlled approach.