When designing 2+1 and 1+1 roads, the central barrier system prevents overtaking. While this enhances safety, it also creates challenges: drivers stuck behind slower vehicles or eager to speed may resort to dangerous behaviour like undertaking (illegally passing a vehicle on the left).
As road designers, we need to account for these human behaviours and implement solutions to reduce the likelihood of this move:
- Provide Clear and Frequent Overtaking Opportunities: The best approach is to integrate overtaking lanes within the central barrier system job and use clear signage to indicate where and how long it will be until the next opportunity.
- Offset the Side Barrier: Placing the side barrier closer to the running lane can discourage undertaking. However, this must be done cautiously, as it limits safe space for vehicles to stop in emergencies.
- Paint or Hatch the Shoulder: While this has limited impact, it can help in cases where drivers mistakenly believe the shoulder is a running lane.
Designing safer roads means anticipating and addressing human behaviour. By considering these factors, we can create environments that guide drivers toward safer choices and minimise the risks of dangerous manoeuvres.
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