Impact of Work Zone Signage on Driver Speeding Behavior: A Driving Simulator Study

Abstract

Driving in a work zone can be dangerous. To enhance and maximize safety in work zones, we must strategically address important issues such as speeding. In this study, a high fidelity driving simulator is used to evaluate the effectiveness of three different work zone signs including speed photo enforced, dynamic speed display signs (DSDS), and reduced speed limit as it relates to driver behavior. These signs were used to compare speed in a scenario where there was no sign. The simulated area for this study was (MD-295) which connects Washington D.C to Baltimore, Maryland. Signs were strategically placed informing drivers before entering the work zone. Additional signs were placed in the work zone in attempt to change driver behavior. Data was collected from 66 participants who drove approximately 264 driving simulations. The study involved four phases which included initial speed area, sign visible area, sign readable area, and post-sign area. These areas were used comparing speed, finding the effectiveness of signs in each area. The result from an ANOVA and post hoc analysis showed that the best sign of the three tested was the speed-photo-enforced sign; which cause the greatest decrease in speed. In addition, results show female participants are more successful than male participants in decreasing speed when seeing the photo-enforcement sign.