An analysis of traveler perceptions of freeway traffic quality
Abstract
The level of service (LOS) concept given in the Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) has been used as a qualitative measure representing freeway operational conditions for over 35 years. One key element that is not adequately addressed, however, is how travelers perceive the quality of service. This exploratory research aims to examine traveler perceptions of freeway traffic quality in terms of traveler characteristics and prevailing traffic conditions. Questionnaire surveys were designed and conducted in the present study to quantify traveler perceptions and the results were statistically analyzed and compared with the HCM specification. Findings suggested that the use of traffic density as a single performance measure for LOS as currently prescribed in the HCM does not reasonably reflect the perspectives of travelers. In addition, travelers perceived traffic conditions at fewer than the six levels of the current HCM LOS. Several significant attributes in terms of traveler perceptions were identified through a modeling approach and these attributes were found not only to vary across the diverse characteristics of travelers but also were substantially dependent on prevailing traffic conditions. The developed models in the present study provided a quantitative basis for describing the freeway quality of service in terms of traveler perceptions.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Sinha, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Civil engineering|Transportation
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