Open AccessDetermining the appropriate lane width at urban signalised intersections – a case study in Beijing
Author(s) -
Chang Xin,
Li Haijian,
Rong Jian,
Chen Xiaoxuan,
Wang Yi
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
iet intelligent transport systems
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.579
H-Index - 45
eISSN - 1751-9578
pISSN - 1751-956X
DOI - 10.1049/iet-its.2018.5401
Subject(s) - beijing , transport engineering , computer science , geography , environmental science , engineering , china , archaeology
Intersections are the key nodes in an urban traffic network that affect overall traffic efficiency. Lane width is a major element of an intersection that is affected by the saturation flow rate of the intersection. It is also influenced by a variety of other factors, such as road resource constraints, vehicle composition, traffic safety, and driving comfort. To determine the appropriate lane width, this study analysed relationships between lane widths and design‐related factors, including saturation flow rate, lateral safety distance, traffic crash rate, and driver comfort. First, screening and surveys were conducted using the design data of more than 3000 existing crossroads. Then, seven intersections with different lane widths were selected. To collect traffic flow data, video‐based surveys were conducted. Meanwhile, the traffic crash rate was collected to assess traffic safety. Moreover, surveys were conducted to assess the driving experience. Finally, the Delphi method was developed to evaluate the index weights of the design‐related factors. The case study revealed that the optimal lane width for four‐legged intersections is 3.1 m. A lane width of 2.8 m is an alternative for cases of limited road resources. The results could be supplementary guidance or reference for road designers and administrators.