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Evaluation of Messaging Techniques to Increase Vehicle Spacing at Work Zones

Project Details
STATUS

Completed

PROJECT NUMBER

21-756, TPF-5(438)

START DATE

03/01/21

END DATE

09/30/23

FOCUS AREAS

Safety

RESEARCH CENTERS InTrans, CTRE, SWZDI
SPONSORS

Iowa Department of Transportation
Smart Work Zone Deployment Initiative

Researchers
Principal Investigator
Jing Dong-O'Brien

Transportation Engineer, CTRE

Co-Principal Investigator
John Shaw

Research Scientist, Public Science Collaborative

Co-Principal Investigator
Skylar Knickerbocker

Research Scientist, CTRE

About the research

Rear-end collisions in work zones, induced primarily by speeding and tailgating, are a predominant concern for roadway safety. Although considerable research has shed light on the dangers and implications of speeding within these zones, there exists a conspicuous research gap on tailgating behaviors.

To address this gap, the present project was conducted in two main phases. In the first phase, a message design and comprehension test involved the development of graphics and messages tailored for both fixed signs and dynamic message signs (DMS). These messages were constructed to ensure not only that drivers understood them with ease but also that the messages emotionally resonated with drivers and conveyed positive sentiments. In the subsequent field test phase, the designed signs were installed in work zones to evaluate their effectiveness in real-world settings. Two key performance metrics, namely, the average vehicle headway and the probability of tailgating occurrences, were used for this evaluation.

Preliminary surveys among potential users indicated a strong inclination towards messages with a positive tone and without numerical specifics, underscoring the importance of the messages’ lucidity and favorable reception. Field evaluations carried out at single-lane closure and shoulder closure construction sites demonstrated the efficacy of the signs evaluated in the surveys. There was an increase in average vehicle headway and a reduction in the probability of tailgating occurrences at both sites. Collectively, this research provides meaningful insights into tailgating behaviors in work zones, bridging the knowledge gap and laying a foundation for work zone safety strategies.

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