Idaho Storm Warning System: Operational Test. Yinal Report.

摘要

The Storm Warning Project was initiated in 1993 as a result of a large number of serious traffic crashes that occurred during periods of low visibility on I-84 in southeastern Idaho between 1988 and 1993. The purpose of the project was to determine if visibility sensors and the resultant information supplied to drivers on roadway message signs would reduce vehicle speeds to safe levels as warranted by weather conditions. Sensors measuring traffic, visibility, roadway, and weather data were installed at the test site, and automatic traffic counters recorded the lane number, time, speed, and length of each vehicle passing the sensor site. To confirm visibility readings provided by the sensors, a video camera was installed at the test site and aimed at a series of target signs placed along the interstate at various known distances. During the course of the project, four variable message signs (VMSs) were installed along the test section of roadway, to provide information to travelers regarding low visibility and other road condition information in the test area. Data generated by the sensor systems were transmitted to a master computer, which recorded readings every five minutes. This information provided a baseline of driver behavior, to help determine if the signs were causing drivers to change their behavior.