10 Conclusions
This activity collected a lot of information on safety-related rural Intelligent Transportation Systems that are deployed or planned for deployment around the country. The information collection methodology employed, while highly effective for those questionnaires returned, did not receive an overwhelming level of success in terms of rate of return. A shorter, simpler questionnaire may have received a higher rate of return, but would not have provided the detailed information needed for this study.Speed Management Systems are currently the most common form of deployed rural ITS aimed at reducing the frequency or severity of crashes.
Most agencies that deployed technology treatments had already deployed conventional treatments, which proved to be ineffective in addressing the problem.
Agencies use a wide variety of criteria in choosing the software and hardware for their technology treatment.
A large number of factors can affect system performance, but most of the deployed systems are performing satisfactorily.
Not all of the systems described have undergone a formal evaluation. However, most of the systems that have undergone a formal or informal evaluation have at least partially met their objective(s).
A number of “Hot Spots” for rural ITS deployment aimed at improving safety were identified. These ranged from specific locations to general categories of locations.
Agencies who have deployed rural ITS systems have a wealth of knowledge in terms of obstacles and lessons learned. Other agencies considering deploying similar systems should make use of this knowledge.
The systems reviewed target a wide variety of rural fatal crash populations. However, with the exception of general Variable Speed Limit Systems, most of the rural ITS technologies aimed at improving safety in rural areas address specific localized problems. As such, they hold their maximum potential payoff through application at localized high frequency crash sites with similar problems and characteristics.
A lot of rural crashes involve the driver element. Most of the systems reviewed in this report are active systems, providing dynamic warnings or suggested actions. However, it is up to the driver to decide whether or not to adjust their driving accordingly. The anti-icing systems reviewed are also active systems, but remove the hazardous condition instead of warning of its presence.