Human Centered Systems Research
Intersection Program
The Intersection Program is dedicated to behavioral research that examines the interaction between humans and roadway intersections. The focus of the research is to develop guidance that enables engineers to deliver safe and efficient products to their customers—intersection users.
The research program encompasses all types of highway intersections and includes interchanges, signalized intersections, roundabouts, and stop-controlled intersections. The scope of the research incorporates all intersection users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, drivers, and others. Studies will be conducted in the field and in Federal Highway Administration's Highway Driving Simulator.
Recent research has addressed driver behavior and pedestrian behavior. Currently, three projects are currently underway:
- Examining solutions to access problems faced by pedestrians with visual impairments at roundabout pedestrian facilities
- Evaluating the new "diverging diamond interchange," and observing driver behavior to signage, marking, and geometric design variations
- Conducting research and development for a potential system to warn drivers of a potential collision with a red-light violator.
Recently completed research documented behavioral interactions between drivers and blind pedestrians at double-lane roundabouts, and influences on driver path and speed through double-lane roundabouts. Other recent research documented driver response to an unexpected and unfamiliar collision warning at a signalized intersection.
Contact: Gregory Davis, 202-493-3367
