Safety Risk Assessment of Low-Volume Road Segments on the Tibetan Plateau Using UAV LiDAR Data

Yichi Zhang, Xuan Dou, Hanping Zhao (), Ying Xue and Jinfan Liang
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Yichi Zhang: Key Laboratory of Environmental Change and Natural Disasters, Ministry of Education, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
Xuan Dou: Key Laboratory of Environmental Change and Natural Disasters, Ministry of Education, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
Hanping Zhao: Key Laboratory of Environmental Change and Natural Disasters, Ministry of Education, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
Ying Xue: Key Laboratory of Environmental Change and Natural Disasters, Ministry of Education, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
Jinfan Liang: Key Laboratory of Environmental Change and Natural Disasters, Ministry of Education, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China

Sustainability, 2023, vol. 15, issue 14, 1-19

Abstract: The intricate topography and numerous hazards of highland roads contribute to a significantly higher incidence of traffic accidents on these roads compared to those on the plains. Although precise road data can enhance the safety evaluation and management of these road segments, the cost of data acquisition in highland areas is prohibitively high. To tackle this issue, our paper proposes a system of assessment indices and extraction methods specifically designed for plateau regions, supplementing existing road safety audit techniques. We are pioneers in integrating a high-precision 3D point cloud model into the safety risk assessment of low-traffic plateau roads, utilizing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) LiDAR technology. This innovative approach enhances both the efficiency and accuracy of road mapping. Building on this, we amalgamated three categories of indices—road 3D alignment, geographical environment, and natural disasters—to formulate a comprehensive safety risk assessment model. Applying this model to seventeen representative road segments on the Tibetan Plateau, we found that road alignment significantly influences road safety risk. The segments with the highest risk ratings are predominantly those located in the southwestern part of the Tibetan region, such as Zanda and Gar. Road safety management should prioritize road alignment, particularly the role of the curve radius, without overlooking the impact of environmental factors and natural disasters.

Keywords: road safety risk assessment; UAV LiDAR; Tibetan Plateau; high-altitude areas; road geometry parameters; geographical environment (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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