Initial Findings on Skid Resistance of Unpaved Roads

Abstract

Unpaved roads have a dynamic surface, which can make it difficult to predict the skid resistance of a section for use in geometric design and gravel selection and to schedule maintenance. This investigation showed that there are three mechanisms for skidding on unpaved roads: intersurface friction, sliding on a thin layer of loose material, and plowing through a thick layer of loose material. The main surface and material properties affecting skid resistance are the stoniness severity and extent, the severity and extent of raveling, and the amount of loose material in the 0.850-mm to 2.00-mm range on the surface. The range of coefficients of friction for unpaved roads is from 0.40 to 0.85, with the lower value being conservative.