THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN AN OPTION SPACE AND DRIVERS' INDECISION

A traffic signal is a substantially different traffic sign compared with other traffic devices. The uniqueness of traffic signals is manifested in their displaying an alternate message and not a constant one. The transition period from one message to another creates a decision problem for drivers. An inappropriate decision might create a risk of a rear-end collision. This article presents a disaggregate behavioral model for drivers' decision when the green light ends. It is demonstrated, and supported by field data, that a large option zone increases the indecision of drivers. The increase in indecision creates a greater risk of rear-end collisions, as experienced at many intersections. The influence of distance from the intersection and of approach speed on drivers' decision is examined through the model.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/01935860
• Corporate Authors:

  University of California, Irvine

  Institute of Transportation Studies
  4000 Anteater Instruction and Research Building
  Irvine, CA  United States  92697
• Authors:
  • PRASHKER, J N
  • MAHALEL, D
• Publication Date: 1988-8

Media Info

• Features: Figures; References; Tables;
• Pagination: 31 p.
• Serial:
  • Publication of: California University, Irvine
  • Publisher: University of California, Irvine
  • ISSN: 0193-5860

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Approach; Behavior; Decision making; Disaggregate analysis; Distance; Drivers; Hazards; Rear end crashes; Risk assessment; Signalized intersections; Speed; Traffic signals
• Old TRIS Terms: Approach speed; Disaggregate models
• Subject Areas: Highways; Operations and Traffic Management; Safety and Human Factors; I73: Traffic Control;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00475451
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: UCI-ITS-WP-88-12
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Aug 31 1988 12:00AM