An exploratory investigation of the impact of ramp metering on driver acceleration behavior. (December 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yang, Guangchuan; Tian, Zong
• Is Part Of: IATSS research. Volume 43:Number 4(2019)
• Page Start: 277
• Page End: 285
• Publication Date: 2019-12
• Subjects: Ramp metering -- Acceleration behavior -- Piecewise-constant acceleration model -- Speed profile -- Statistic test; Traffic safety -- Periodicals; Transportation and state -- Periodicals; Verkeersveiligheid; Internationale organisaties; Traffic safety; Transportation and state; Periodicals; 363.1256
• DOI: 10.1016/j.iatssr.2019.03.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0386-1112

Abstract

Abstract: Ramp metering has been proven as an effective freeway management strategy; however, the impact of ramp metering on drivers' acceleration behavior has not been fully investigated. A better understanding of acceleration behavior changes with ramp metering is critical to the adequate design of ramp metering facilities. In this study, drivers' speed and acceleration data were collected at two representative metered ramps in Los Angeles, California. The speed and acceleration profiles under meter-on and meter-off scenarios were compared. Statistical results demonstrated that ramp metering affects drivers' acceleration behavior at ramp acceleration lane. It was found that at the metered ramp with short existing acceleration length, the average acceleration rate from ramp meter stop bar to 500 ft downstream under meter-on scenario (4.72 ft./s 2 ) is approximately 40% higher than when meter-off (3.18 ft./s 2 ). The design of acceleration lane length for metered on-ramps should therefore take into account the potential impacts of ramp metering on driver acceleration behavior. Highlights: Ramp metering affects drivers' perceptions of the available acceleration lane length Average acceleration rate when ramp meter-on is 40% higher than when ramp meter off Ramp metering affects driver acceleration behavior and thus acceleration lane length design requirements Need to develop dedicated acceleration lane length design guidelines for metered on-ramps