Recommended Citation
Chien, S., Chen, Y., Tian, R., Li, L., Liu, D., Zhou, J., & Shen, D. (2021). Alternate interchange signing study for Indiana highways (Joint Transportation Research Program Publication No. FHWA/IN/JTRP-2021/33). West Lafayette, IN: Purdue University. https://doi.org/10.5703/1288284317439
DOI
10.5703/1288284317439
Abstract
The main objectives of this research were to (1) understand signing issues from the perspective of drivers and (2) develop recommendations for improving interchange signing in Indiana to aid driver understanding and increase the safety and efficiency of highway traffic operations. An online survey with specific questions was designed and distributed through email, social media, online newspapers, and a survey company with the goal of better understanding driver thinking when approaching decision-making areas on the interstate. The analysis of the survey results revealed the following.
- Drivers usually do not know the interchange types as they approach an interchange on the freeway.
- Drivers are most interested in which lanes they should be in when approaching an interchange, even in advance of typical signing locations.
- Drivers do not like signs that require cognitive work since it will delay their driving decision by creating uncertainty.
- Different drivers need different types of information from signs, such as cardinal direction, destination name, road name, and lane assignments. Therefore, a perfect sign for one driver may be confusing or information overload for another driver.
- In some instances, a driver who is familiar with the area is confused by the signs because the sign information contradicts the driver’s knowledge.
Report Number
FHWA/IN/JTRP-2021/33
Keywords
highway interchange signing, Indiana interstate highway
SPR Number
4545
Performing Organization
Joint Transportation Research Program
Sponsoring Organization
Indiana Department of Transportation
Publisher Place
West Lafayette, IN
Date of this Version
2021