Highway Advisory Radio in Construction Areas
Highway Advisory Radio in Construction Areas

Author: Frank P. Gatling

Publisher:

Published: 1977

Total Pages: 26

ISBN-13:

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The subjects sat in a driving simulator and watched a motion of a construction work area that was taken through the windshield of an automobile as the subjects "drove." Simulated radio messages were given that described the features of the work area. Subjects had to indicate their preference between a longer detailed message and a shorter general message format. The messages were presented at three different times before the construction area on the film began. A questionnaire was used to elicit the responses from the subjects.

Speed Reduction Effects of Changeable Message Signs in a Construction Zone
Speed Reduction Effects of Changeable Message Signs in a Construction Zone

Author: R. F. Benekohal

Publisher:

Published: 1992

Total Pages: 84

ISBN-13:

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This study evaluated the vehicular speed reduction effects of displaying speed limit and information messages on a changeable message sign (CMS) placed inside the work activity area in a work zone for a one lane closure on a rural interstate highway. It also examined the additional effects of using two CMS devices compared to one CMS. The following three experiments were conducted: (1) One CMS in advance of the work zone (Experiment 1), (2) One CMS inside the work activity area (Experiment 2), and (3) Two CMSs inside the work activity area (Experiment 3). Displaying speed limit and information messages on CMSs placed in the work activity area was effective in reducing the average speed and percentages of vehicles with excessive speeds. Comparing the results from Experiments 2 and 3 indicated that displaying the CMS messages reduced the speed of cars immediately after passing the CMS, but not at a point far from the CMS. Although trucks did not consistently reduce their speeds near the first CMS, trucks traveled at reduced speeds after passing the CMS. Cars and trucks reduced their speeds by as much as 5 and 4 mph, respectively, near the CMS. The speed reduction depended on the travel speed of the vehicles. Placing the CMS in the work activity area was more effective than putting it in advance of the work zone.