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Publication

Influence of Visible Work Activity on Drivers’ Speed Choice at Roadworks

Author/Presenter: Blackman, Ross A.; Debnath, Ashim Kumar; Haworth, Narelle L.
Abstract:

Vehicle traffic through roadwork sites creates a hazardous work environment, with speed limit noncompliance a major contributor to the high risk and high severity of roadwork crashes. This paper examines responses to an online survey to better understand the factors underlying drivers’ work zone speed choices. Drivers’ stated speed choice was compared between two photographs of the same work zone section — one with workers and machinery present and another with no visible activity. Drivers also provided comments on any aspect of roadwork safety they thought was important. A paired t-test of stated speed choice revealed that significantly lower mean speeds were nominated when workers and machinery were clearly present and active (41.7 vs 53.5 km/h, p<0.01). Participants expressed concern about roadwork signage and reduced speed limits being left in place when there was no apparent work activity. Driver perceptions, and thus compliance, may be improved through technological and operational changes.

Source: Proceedings of the 2014 Occupational Safety in Transport Conference, September 18-19, 2014, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Publisher: Queensland University of Technology, Australia
Publication Date: 2014
Full Text URL: Link to URL
Publication Types: Books, Reports, Papers, and Research Articles
Topics: Perception; Traffic Speed; Work Zones

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