Published in 1982
Various guidelines that have been proposed for the operation of traffic signals in the flashing mode were reviewed. The use of existing traffic simulation procedures to evaluate flashing signals was examined and a study methodology for simulating and evaluating potential flashing signal schemes was developed. A case study is described in which the performance of existing signal settings versus flashing signal strategies was tested for different levels of main street and side street traffic volumes. The study showed that the main street flow improves with flashing signals in its favor under all circumstances, while increased volumes typically create longer delays at the side street. Major and side street traffic volumes are recommended as the focus of guidelines for using flashing signals during peak flow periods.
Last updated: January 18, 2024