SAFETY AT NARROW BRIDGE SITES

This study for determining methods (other than widening) for reducing the hazards associated with narrow bridges, included the developing of a bridge safety indes (BSI) for determining priorities in dealing with problems involving bridges having restricted width. The BSI approach is presented in the form of tables and figures readily usable by practicing engineers. An example problem is used to define BSI and permit its direct application to practice. The corrective measures to reduce the probability and severity of accidents at potentially hazardous sites are described briefly: realign roadway where sight distance problems are apparent and traffic control measures appear to fail; replace bridge rail (installation of smooth rail increases probability of redirecting vehicle); change approach grades when grade continuity is a problem; install approach guardrail; place edge lines and transition markers; install narrow bridge and advisory speed signs; install signs and remove centerline strips on one-lane bridges; re-route commercial vehicles; and environmental control of distracting lights and other roadside disturbances.

• Record URL:
  http://onlinepubs.trb.org/onlinepubs/nchrp/nchrp_rrd_98.pdf
• Supplemental Notes:
  • Distribution, posting, or copying of this PDF is strictly prohibited without written permission of the Transportation Research Board of the National Academy of Sciences. Unless otherwise indicated, all materials in this PDF are copyrighted by the National Academy of Sciences. Copyright © National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved.
• Corporate Authors:

  Transportation Research Board

  500 Fifth Street, NW
  Washington, DC  United States  20001
• Authors:
  • Ivey, D L
  • Olson, R M
  • Walton, N E
  • Weaver, G D
  • Woods, D L
• Publication Date: 1977-12

Media Info

• Media Type: Digital/other
• Features: Figures; Tables;
• Pagination: 9 p.
• Serial:
  • NCHRP Research Results Digest
  • Issue Number: 98
  • Publisher: Transportation Research Board

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Alignment; Bridge approaches; Bridge railings; Center lines; Commercial vehicles; Crash severity; Edge lines; Guardrails; Indexes (Information management); Narrow bridges; Prevention; Road markings; Safety; Sight distance; Signs; Slopes; Speed
• Uncontrolled Terms: Grades
• Old TRIS Terms: Traffic marking
• Subject Areas: Highways; Safety and Human Factors; Security and Emergencies;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00170403
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: NCHRP Proj. 20-7
• Files: TRIS, TRB
• Created Date: Sep 30 1983 12:00AM