In-Depth Investigation of Wrong-Way Crashes on Divided Highways in Alabama with Use of the Haddon Matrix and Field Observations

Abstract

Few studies exist on wrong-way driving (WWD) on divided highways. Earlier findings on contributing factors and countermeasures mostly have been on freeways. This study filled the gap through the conduct of an in-depth investigation of WWD crashes exclusively on divided highways in Alabama. Extensive efforts were made to analyze WWD crash data through the use of the Haddon Matrix and field observations. General issues, contributing factors, and countermeasures were identified through in-depth analyses of individual crashes and field review of crash locations and WWD entry points. On the basis of study conclusions, recommendations are made to reduce the possibility and severity of WWD on divided highways.

Modeling Wrong-Way Driving Entries at Limited Access Facility Exit Ramps in Florida

“…In 1967, California started detecting wrong-way drivers using road tubes and cameras, so that transportation agencies could identify locations where there is a high density of WWD crashes and get a better grasp of where WWD events were most likely to occur ( 12 ). Studies were also conducted in Alabama to examine the influence of different contributing factors on WWD crashes ( 2, 3, 13, 14 ). These studies only considered a limited sample of WWD crashes and certain types of interchanges, such as partial cloverleaf and full diamond interchanges ( 13, 14 ).…”

“…Crashes owing to wrong-way driving (WWD) are often more severe than other crashes. Even though WWD crashes account for only 3% of all crashes on high speed divided highways ( 1 ), they often draw more media attention owing to their higher fatality rate (1.34 fatalities per fatal WWD crash) compared to other type of crashes (1.10 fatalities per fatal crash) and can worry road users ( 2, 3 ). As WWD crashes are rare, it can be difficult for transportation agencies to predict WWD crashes at a specific location using historical crash data.…”