Abstract
The guardrail runout length recommendations contained in AASHTO's Roadside Design Guide were reevaluated to determine optimal guardrail length of need. Encroachment data collected along Canadian highways were evaluated in a manner similar to that used with other encroachment data to reproduce the procedures contained in AASHTO's Roadside Design Guide. A cost-benefit analysis of extending guardrails was also conducted as an alternative procedure for defining appropriate guardrail runout lengths. Both analysis procedures indicate that the guardrail runout lengths recommended by the Roadside Design Guide are excessive. Highway agencies are advised to select one of the two new procedures for identifying appropriate guardrail runout lengths.
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