Probability of a Vehicle Traveling through a Longitudinal Barrier: Penetrations, Rollovers, Vaults

摘要

One important aspect of the selection of the longitudinal barrier for use in a particular situation is estimating the probability that vehicles will cross the barrier line by penetrating, rolling over, or vaulting over the barrier. This probability is a function of the barrier type and the expected vehicle types that will interact with the barrier. This paper presents a method based on a semi-empirical approach using observed crash data, reconstructed field trajectories, a simplified mechanics model, and RSAPv3 simulations to estimate the probability of passing through a barrier based on the barrier types and vehicle type. This information is necessary when selecting the appropriate MASH test level barrier for a particular situation based on the traffic conditions expected at the site.