Visual Problems on Motorways

Abstract

The visual problems of drivers on the motorway have been studied by new techniques and compared with the problems on traffic routes, with special reference to the possible need for fixed lighting. By day the visual problems are generally much less severe on the motorways, but the vehicle and the driver have less in hand to cope with emergencies and consequences of an accident are often more grave. By night the information presented to the driver by headlights, reflector studs, rear lights and signals are found to be inadequate and often confusing. Fixed lighting of good quality has been shown to be capable of giving the driver all the information he needs, and it is concluded that a technical case for its installation can be made out. The accident rate on motorways is low at present traffic density, but on motorways abroad where the density is greater high accident rates occurred which have been substantially lowered by the installation of fixed lighting. Technical characteristics for fixed lighting on the motorway are derived from the observed requirements. The paper does not discuss questions of engineering, economics or policy. Some suggestions for guidance and visual signalling on the motorway are discussed in an appendix.