Road Safety Engineering - Unit I
1. Traffic Engineering - Definition and Objectives
Traffic engineering is a branch of civil engineering that deals with the planning, design, and
operation of road systems to ensure safe and efficient movement of people and goods.
Objectives:
- To ensure the safe and smooth flow of traffic
- To reduce traffic congestion
- To minimize road accidents
- To improve road user comfort and convenience
- To promote efficient use of road space
2. Traffic Flow Characteristics
Traffic flow characteristics describe how traffic moves on a road. The main characteristics are:
- Speed: The rate at which vehicles move.
- Volume: The number of vehicles passing a point in a given time.
- Density: The number of vehicles per unit length of the road.
These help traffic engineers understand and manage traffic conditions.
3. Traffic Volume Studies
Traffic volume study is the counting of the number of vehicles passing a point on the road over a
certain period.
Uses:
- For designing roads and intersections
- For planning signals and road widening
- For traffic forecasting
Methods:
- Manual counting
- Automatic counters like sensors and cameras
4. Speed Studies
Speed study is conducted to find the speed characteristics of vehicles on a road.
Types:
- Spot speed study: Measures speed at a specific location.
- Speed and delay study: Measures total journey time including delays.
Purpose:
- To set speed limits
- To identify speeding issues
- To design curves and road geometry
5. Origin and Destination (O-D) Studies
O-D studies are used to determine the travel pattern of people or vehicles between different
locations.
Purpose:
- For planning new roads
- For designing transport systems
- For estimating traffic growth
Data collected includes:
- Starting point
- Ending point
- Route taken
- Purpose of travel
6. Parking Studies
Parking studies help understand parking demand and supply in an area.
Objectives:
- To identify parking problems
- To design parking spaces
- To reduce congestion caused by parking
Methods:
- Inventory studies (space availability)
- Occupancy studies (usage of parking spaces)
7. Accident Studies
Accident studies are conducted to identify accident-prone areas and causes.
Purpose:
- To analyze accident trends
- To identify black spots
- To plan corrective measures
Data collected:
- Location and time
- Type of vehicles involved
- Weather and road condition
- Cause of accident
8. Causes of Road Accidents
Road accidents are caused by various factors:
- Human errors: Speeding, drunk driving, mobile use
- Vehicle defects: Brake failure, tyre burst
- Road conditions: Potholes, sharp curves
- Weather: Fog, rain
Identifying causes helps in preventing future accidents.
9. Types of Road Accidents
Common types of road accidents include:
- Head-on collision
- Rear-end collision
- Side-impact collision
- Pedestrian accidents
- Hit and run cases
Understanding types helps in planning road safety features like medians, signals, and pedestrian
crossings.
10. Measures for Preventing Road Accidents
To prevent road accidents, the following measures are taken:
- Engineering measures: Proper road design, signs, lighting
- Enforcement: Strict rules and penalties
- Education: Awareness programs and driver training
- Emergency services: Quick response to accidents
Combined efforts from authorities and the public can reduce accidents and make roads safer.
