Safety Impact Evaluation of a Narrow Automated Vehicle-Exclusive Reversible Lane on an Existing Smart Freeway

The main objective of this research is to evaluate the safety impact of an innovative infrastructure solution for safe and efficient integration of Automated Vehicle (AV) as an emerging technology into an existing transportation system. Filling the gap in the limited research on the effect of AV technology on infrastructure standards, this project will evaluate whether AVs could operate safely in a narrow lane next to regular traffic lanes on an expressway. Specifically, this study will investigate implications of adding a narrow reversible AV exclusive lane to the existing configuration of I-15 expressway in San Diego, resulting in a 9-feet AV reversible lane, and in both directions, two 12-feet lanes for HOV and FasTrak vehicles. Given the difference between the operation of AVs and human-driven vehicles and reliance of AVs on sensors as opposed to human capabilities, the question is can we provide narrower roadways with more efficient right of ways assuming AVs are more precise in lateral and longitudinal lane keeping behavior? To accomplish the goal of the project, the research team will conduct a series of research approaches including literature review, AV manufacturers product review, expert interviews, consumer questionnaire review, crash data analysis, and traffic simulation analysis. The research team will prepare practical recommendations and guidelines from the results of the study usable for practitioners and professional organizations pertaining to AV development.

Language

  • English

Project

  • Status: Active
  • Funding: $228504
  • Contract Numbers:

    69A3551747115

  • Sponsor Organizations:

    Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology

    University Transportation Centers Program
    Department of Transportation
    Washington, DC  United States  20590
  • Managing Organizations:

    Safety through Disruption University Transportation Center (Safe-D)

    Virginia Tech Transportation Institute
    Blacksburg, VA  United States  24060
  • Project Managers:

    Harwood, Leslie

  • Performing Organizations:

    San Diego State University

    5500 Campanile Dr
    San Diego, CA  United States  92182
  • Principal Investigators:

    Machiani, Sahar

  • Start Date: 20190401
  • Expected Completion Date: 20200930
  • Actual Completion Date: 0
  • USDOT Program: University Transportation Centers Program

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 01701413
  • Record Type: Research project
  • Source Agency: Safety through Disruption University Transportation Center (Safe-D)
  • Contract Numbers: 69A3551747115
  • Files: UTC, RIP
  • Created Date: Apr 4 2019 2:04PM