| Author | Kuruwita, Sarathchandra Susantha |
| Call Number | AIT Thesis no.GT-81-33 |
| Subject(s) | Roads--Design
|
| Note | A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Engineering, School of Engineering and Technology |
| Publisher | Asian Institute of Technology |
| Abstract | For the sate execution of passing maneuvers, which would
reduce the congestion of a road, gaps in the oncoming
traffic stream should be greater than the time spent in the
opposing lane by a passing driver, and the sight distance available should be greater than the minimum required. Incorrect judgement of gap size and substandard sight distance increase the risk of collision. Of the several methods employed by the highway authorities to reduce the risk of collisions, the most common method is the no-passing zones.
The present study investigated the time spent in the opposing lane, the passing distance and passing sight distance needed for speeds in the range of 40 to 80 km/h. A brief study of accident rates was conducted to establish the minimum traffic flow at which the marking of no-passing zones would be justified.
It was established in the present study, that the speed difference and the terrain affects the time spent in the opposing lane. It was further found that the present marking standards are adequate for the speeds observed. The minimum traffic flow at which the no-passing zones could be economically marked is 2000 veh/d.
On the strength of the finding, it is recommended to extend the research with a more comprehensive study, particularly at higher speeds. The variation of the driver's height of eye and its effect on the passing sight distance is another aspect of study that is recommended. Finally, a thorough accident analysis be conducted, focusing upon the inadequacies of the present no-passing zone marking practice before changing the current stipulations. |
| Year | 1982 |
| Type | Thesis |
| School | School of Engineering and Technology |
| Department | Department of Civil and Infrastucture Engineering (DCIE) |
| Academic Program/FoS | Geotechnical and Transportation Engineering (GT) |
| Chairperson(s) | Jones, John Hugh ; Prapansak Buranaprapa |
| Examination Committee(s) | Pichai Pamanikabud |
| Scholarship Donor(s) | Keidanren Foundation of Japan |
| Degree | Thesis (M. Eng.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 1982 |