Analysis of the Impact of Countdown Signal Timers on Driving Behavior and Road Safety

Tomasz Krukowicz, Krzysztof Firląg, Józef Suda and Mirosław Czerliński
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Tomasz Krukowicz: Faculty of Transport, Warsaw University of Technology, Koszykowa 75, 00-662 Warszawa, Poland
Krzysztof Firląg: Faculty of Transport, Warsaw University of Technology, Koszykowa 75, 00-662 Warszawa, Poland
Józef Suda: Faculty of Transport, Warsaw University of Technology, Koszykowa 75, 00-662 Warszawa, Poland
Mirosław Czerliński: Faculty of Transport, Warsaw University of Technology, Koszykowa 75, 00-662 Warszawa, Poland

Energies, 2021, vol. 14, issue 21, 1-33

Abstract: This article describes the safety and effectiveness issues related to signal countdown timers (SCT). These devices are used in many countries around the world. The impact of these devices on road safety and the effectiveness of traffic lights is presented. During a literature review, more than 18 aspects of device use were recognized. The research involved measurements carried out at three intersections in Płock (Poland). The initial and final period of the green signal for vehicles was analyzed. Headways, incidences of vehicles passing through after the end of the green signal, and red-light violations were examined. Additionally, a fuel consumption analysis and a case study of a road crash in Szczecin (Poland) are presented. Problems related to signal countdown timers working during traffic light failure are described. The research shows different influences of signal countdown timers at various intersections. It was observed that SCTs increase the number of red-light violations and during the red-amber signal. On the other hand, the number of entries during the amber signal with SCTs is lower. A literature review also indicated that the use of SCT causes a reduction of start-up time (positive impact) and increases vehicle speed (negative impact). The article concludes that SCTs do not always fulfill their role in improving road safety and control efficiency. Conclusions can address various stakeholders, including drivers, road authorities, and traffic engineers.

Keywords: signal countdown timer; SCT; GSCT; RSCT; traffic signals; traffic lights; road safety; road traffic control; traffic engineering; driver behavior (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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