Safety Analysis of Flashing Operation at Signalized Intersections

This article focuses on the safety evaluation of stopping traffic signal operations at off-peak traffic hours and substituting a flashing amber for all directions. This control strategy is motivated by the need for energy conservation considerations through reduced amounts of acceleration and idling time of vehicles. Although this policy is intended for those hours when signals are not warranted by the low traffic volumes, there still exists the need to investigate the safety implications of this kind of operation. The results showed that the most frequent type of conflict under full signal operation were of the rear end type, while during the flashing amber operation crossing and merging manoeuvers were dominant. (TRRL)