Investigation of the Effective Use of Warning Lights on Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) Vehicles and Equipment

Authors

Bob McCullouch, Purdue UniversityFollow
Brandon Stevens, Indiana Department of TransportationFollow

Recommended Citation

McCullouch, B., and B. Stevens. Investigation of the Effective Use of Warning Lights on Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) Vehicles and Equipment. Publication FHWA/IN/JTRP-2009/03. Joint Transportation Research Program, Indiana Department of Transportation and Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, 2008. https://doi.org/10.5703/1288284314302

DOI

10.5703/1288284314302

Abstract

This study was requested by INDOT to determine if current lighting packages used on INDOT maintenance vehicles, specifically snow plow vehicles, can be improved with other commercially available products. Different light products were obtained from various vendors, mounted on INDOT vehicles, and visual comparisons were performed under various lighting and weather conditions by a team of observers. The comparison evaluations were performed revealing that other light packages, LED models for most options, were brighter and certain colors more visible. The preferred light models are recommended. These recommendations were forwarded to appropriate individuals that make these decisions at INDOT. Implementation is dependent on purchasing decisions made at the Central Office and at each of the Districts.

Report Number

FHWA/IN/JTRP-2009/03

Keywords

Warning lights, visibility, snow plows, safety, accidents, SPR-3086

SPR Number

3086

Project Number

C-36-67LLLL

File Number

9-10-89

Performing Organization

Joint Transportation Research Program

Publisher Place

West Lafayette, Indiana

Date of this Version

12-2008