Guidelines for the Installation of Intersection Beacons and Hazard Identification Beacons

摘要

The objective of the project is to develop warrants for the use of intersection control and hazard warning beacons on New Mexico's rural highways. The technical literature indicates that beacon installations often result in 2-3 mph speed reductions and moderate decreases in crashes. However, effects vary among sites and some installations are accompanied by adverse safety consequences. A survey of western states identified several specific beacon warrants, typically based on accident experience. Findings from field visits to beacon sites were used to develop a database of beacon usage on state highways. Due in part to data availability and reliability problems, accident analyses were unable to document significant safety benefits associated with these installations in New Mexico. The project recommends judicious use of intersection and hazard identification beacons at those sites that cannot be sufficiently improved using more traditional forms of passive corrective action. Suggested installation warrants are based primarily on two-year crash experience and sight distance restrictions.