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Traffic Safety
Improving the safety and security of transportation networks is a key area of research at the Minnesota Traffic Observatory. The MTO’s ability to gather fine-grained data on traffic dynamics has driven significant research into the causes of vehicle crashes, and potential countermeasures.
One recent project utilized the Beholder video system. Starting with video recordings of crashes on Interstate 94 in Minneapolis, researchers were able to extract trajectory information on a platoon of vehicles involved in a crash and used to estimate each driver's initial speed, following distance, reaction time, and braking rate. This section of freeway is considered one of the most crash-prone in the region, with a high rate of rear-end collisions. As a result of the research, lane markings were extended and improved in merging areas.
In addition to studying crashes and dangerous traffic conditions, the MTO provides support to researchers seeking to understand how the design and construction of road networks affects safety and mobility.
In another example, simulation of alternative traffic scenarios was carried out to evaluate potential options for construction work on a busy section of state highway. By evaluating the effects of full and partial road closures during construction, the MTO offered valuable input to the state transportation agency as it sought to balance safety and mobility concerns.