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Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse

Library of Resources to Improve Roadway Work Zone Safety for All Roadway Users

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Publication

Improving Compliance with Work Zone Speed Limits: Effectiveness of Selected Devices

Author/Presenter: Brewer, Marcus A.; Pesti, Geza; Schneider IV, William H.
Abstract:

Thousands of crashes occurring in work zones each year lead to numerous fatalities and injuries. The sizeable portion of these crashes attributed to excessive speed emphasizes the need to motivate drivers to comply with speed limits in work zones. A recent research project was conducted to determine effective measures to motivate and encourage drivers to observe posted speed limits in work zones. Three devices were tested in that project: a speed display trailer, changeable message sign with radar, and orange-border speed limit sign. Results from field testing indicate that devices with the ability to display drivers’ speeds have considerable potential for reducing speeds and improving compliance. Orange borders greatly improve the visibility and conspicuity of speed limit signs, but they do not have a consistent measurable effect on compliance. In the absence of active enforcement, data from this project indicate that drivers are likely to drive as fast as they feel comfortable, regardless of the posted speed limit.

Source: Transportation Research Record: Journal of the Transportation Research Board
Volume: 1948
Issue: 1
Publisher: Transportation Research Board
Publication Date: 2006
Source URL: Link to URL
Publication Types: Books, Reports, Papers, and Research Articles
Topics: Changeable Message Signs; Dynamic Speed Display Signs; Intelligent Transportation Systems; Speed Limits; Temporary Traffic Control; Traffic Control Devices; Work Zone Safety

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