A Comprehensive Study on CMV Safety Using ITS in Work Zones on Freeways and Arterials

Work zones pose significant safety challenges on highways, with Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMVs) being particularly susceptible to higher risk due to their larger size, slower acceleration/deceleration rates, and expanded blind spots. This study aimed to assess the impact of various work zone warning measures on the driving behavior of CMV operators. These measures encompassed static work zone signs, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) warning devices, connected and autonomous vehicle (CAV) technologies, as well as autonomous vehicle (AV) technologies. Over 50 subjects participated in this research to drive a simulated network in a driving simulator environment featuring three distinct work zones. A total of 20 scenarios, incorporating different traffic patterns, lighting options, and weather conditions, were utilized to observe driver’s behavior under various warning systems. Vehicles’ speed, brake use, throttle, longitudinal jerk, and lateral movement were analyzed to evaluate driver’s behavior. The findings of the study demonstrated that the presence of signs and warnings significantly enhanced driver behavior compared to scenarios with no signs or warnings. While static signs led to more reactive behavior, ITS and CAV technologies encouraged proactive responses among drivers. Furthermore, when AV technology was introduced in the simulated work zones, the CMVs experienced quicker return to normal driving conditions, as far as speed adjustment and lane changing. This research suggests that the integration of CAV and AV technologies in CMVs serves as a valuable tool for improving highway safety, particularly within work zone areas.