Snow and Ice Accumulation on Vehicles

During the winter months in regions with significant snowfall, snow and ice accumulates on the tops of vehicles, which can then dislodge during travel. These chunks of snow and ice may strike other vehicles, creating a safety issue that results in property damage or injury to other motorists. The research objectives of this study included quantifying the scope of the problem, identifying potential solutions and developing a recommended action plan for highway safety stakeholders. ATRI conducted a thorough scan of existing literature, snow/ice removal products and regulatory actions relating to snow and ice safety issues. Stakeholder interviews and surveys were also conducted to better understand the technical and institutional challenges and potential solutions. The comprehensive review and synthesis of available research and information yielded little to no data on the scope of snow and ice accumulation on vehicles. The research findings discretely document the myriad safety, financial, technical and institutional challenges associated with effectively addressing or mitigating the safety concerns associated with snow and ice falling from vehicles. To offer a comprehensive set of solutions, a list of actions for the short-, mid- and long-term are recommended in the research. Short-term actions include a public outreach and education campaign targeting operators of all vehicle types. A mid-term action is to further explore the feasibility of locating snow removal devices at public weigh stations and ports of entry. The recommended long-term action plan involves investigation of potential vehicle-based solutions which would prevent or impede snow and ice accumulation on vehicles.

Language

  • English

Media Info

  • Media Type: DVD
  • Features: References; Tables;
  • Pagination: 18p
  • Monograph Title: TRB 89th Annual Meeting Compendium of Papers DVD

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 01153243
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Report/Paper Numbers: 10-2315
  • Files: TRIS, TRB
  • Created Date: Mar 25 2010 7:27AM