Toward Safer Movement of Riders: Evaluating Dedicated Two-Wheeler Lanes at Intersections

Abstract

Motorized two wheelers (MTWs) share a high percentage of the traffic composition in low- and middle-income countries. The exposure for MTWs is higher compared to other types of vehicles. To reduce this risk, dedicated two-wheeler lanes can be used to segregate traffic. Current guidelines have primarily focused on assessing the performance of two-wheeler lanes on midblock sections. However, there has been limited attention on evaluating two-wheeler lanes at intersections within these guidelines and limited studies, which highlights the need for further investigation into intersection design for two-wheeler lanes. Therefore, the present study focuses on evaluating two urban signalized intersections in the presence of two-wheeler lanes. Simulation models were developed using the traffic microsimulation software PTV VISSIM. The models for the two intersections were calibrated, with delay being the performance measure. Dedicated two-wheeler lanes were modeled at intersections to segregate two wheelers from mainstream traffic. The delay was modeled as a function of proportions of two wheelers, exit distances, and traffic volumes using machine learning techniques. Two-wheeler queuing boxes were modeled for different dimensions, and delays were estimated based on traffic conditions. Machine learning techniques modeled delay as a function of traffic parameters and box length. The findings highlight that the proportion of two wheelers and the volume-to-capacity ratio are key factors in estimating delay at intersections with two-wheeler queuing boxes. The outcomes will enable transportation planners to effectively improve the performance of intersections with dedicated two-wheeler lanes and guide future policies aimed at improving road safety and mobility for all road users.