EVALUATION OF TWO ACTIVE TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES FOR USE AT RAILROAD-HIGHWAY GRADE CROSSINGS

Two active traffic control devices with the potential for improving safety at railroad-highway grade crossings were identified by a detailed laboratory evaluation as candidates for field testing under normal traffic conditions at actual crossings. Two crossings with active warning devices already in place were identified as potential study sites, and train and driver behavior data were collected both before and after the experimental traffic control devices were installed. The two devices evaluated for use at railroad-highway grade crossings were four-quadrant flashing light signals with overhead strobes and standard highway traffic signals. Based on the results of the field evaluation, there were no measurable differences in driver behavior between four-quadrant flashing light signals with overhead strobes and the standard two-quadrant flashing light signals. The warning system itself was operationally feasible and may have some limited application. The highway traffic signal proved to be both feasible and effective as a grade crossing traffic control device. Driver response to the highway traffic signal was excellent, with the traffic signal outperforming standard flashing light signals on several key safety and driver behavioral measures of effectiveness. Additional testing of this system is recommended.