Back-of-Queue Safety in Work Zones: Risks and Mitigation Strategies

Work zone queuing poses significant safety challenges, particularly on high-speed roadways where sudden congestion can lead to rear-end and secondary crashes. These two resources provide comprehensive guidance for transportation agencies on identifying, analyzing, and mitigating back-of-queue hazards. Topics include methods for assessing potential queuing impacts, capacity analysis, and simulation tools, as well as practical strategies such as temporary traffic control adjustments, queue warning systems, active queue trucks, intelligent transportation systems, and law enforcement presence. Together, these documents offer actionable solutions—from planning and design considerations to advanced technologies and public information campaigns—to reduce crash risk and improve safety for motorists and workers in work zones.

Topics Covered:

• Strategies for Reducing Back-of-Queue Collisions in Work Zones
• Treating Potential Back-of-Queue Safety Hazards