ROADSIDE SAFETY DESIGN IN THE UNITED STATES

摘要

Major advancements have been made in roadside safety in the USA during the past 40 years. This has been accomplished through adoption and application of the "forgiving roadside concept." A forgiving roadside is one free of obstacles that could cause serious injuries to occupants of an errant vehicle. To the extent possible a relatively flat, unobstructed roadside recovery area is desirable, and when these conditions cannot be provided hazardous features in the recovery area should be made breakaway or shielded with an appropriate barrier. While the number of serious accidents remain unacceptably high due in large part to increased travel, the rates of serious accidents have been dramatically reduced.