United States Department of Transportation
i
Evaluating the need for surface treatments to reduce crash frequency on horizontal curves.
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2013-10-01
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[PDF-2.23 MB]
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Abstract:The application of high-friction surface treatments at appropriate horizontal curve locations throughout the
state has the potential to improve driver performance and reduce the number of crashes experienced at
horizontal curves. These treatments must be implemented judiciously due to their cost, but have the
potential to improve safety at lower cost than geometric improvements like curve straightening, and with
greater effectiveness than control-device treatments like installing delineators or Chevrons.
An analysis framework has been developed to assess the need for surface treatments at curves based on the
concept of margin of safety analysis. Models have been developed to predict vehicle speeds throughout a
curve, and calibrated using data from Texas curve sites. Safety prediction models have also been developed
to quantify the relationship between skid number and curve crash frequency. This information can be
applied to evaluate the safety performance of a curve of interest and estimate the potential safety benefit of
installing a high-friction surface treatment.
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