Engineering Factors Affecting Traffic Signal Yellow Time

摘要

Driver behavior to traffic signal change intervals (yellow plus all-red) was evaluated using the data collected from timelapse cameras at seven sites. Particularly, signal change interval timing was examined as a function of drivers' response characteristics involving their speed, distance, and time to reach the stop line. Drivers' selected yellow response times and deceleration rates were analyzed. Four alternative methods to design signal change interval were discussed. These included (1) a continued use of the current formula using one perception-brake reaction time and one deceleration rate for all speeds, (2) a continued use of the current formula using different perception-brake reaction times and deceleration rates for different speeds, (3) the use of time to reach the stop line by clearing vehicles, and (4) the use of probability of a vehicle stopping. A new method to determine an all-red interval was presented.