Investigate the Impact of Rumble Strip on Motorcyclists

Details

• Creators:
  Tsai, Yichang (James) ; Cabe, Reid ; Vu, Nhu-Mai
• Corporate Creators:
  Georgia Institute of Technology
• Corporate Contributors:
  Georgia. Department of Transportation. Office of Performance-Based Management & Research ; United States. Department of Transportation. Federal Highway Administration
• Subject/TRT Terms:
  Countermeasures Crash Data Literature Reviews Motorcyclists Roads Rumble Strips Safety Sinusoidal Rumble Strip Surveys Vulnerable Road Users
• Publication/ Report Number:
  FHWA-GA-26-2307
• Resource Type:
  Tech Report
• Geographical Coverage:
  United States ; Georgia
• Edition:
  Final; January 2024 – January 2026
• Corporate Publisher:
  Georgia. Department of Transportation. Office of Performance-Based Management & Research
• Abstract:
  This research project evaluates how rumble strip design and placement affect motorcycle safety and comfort, with the goal of developing recommendations for the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) to improve roadway design practices. Rumble strips are a proven countermeasure for roadway departure crashes; however, their vibration and geometry can pose stability concerns for motorcyclists, particularly during braking or leaning maneuvers. The study included a review of existing literature, analysis of Georgia crash data, and a statewide survey of motorcyclists to assess perceived safety and comfort related to different rumble strip configurations. Additionally, a simulation framework was developed to model motorcycle vibration and wheel response under varying rumble strip geometries, speeds, and surface conditions. Survey findings indicated that more than 70 % of respondents experienced discomfort or instability when crossing traditional milled rumble strips, especially along centerlines and shoulders. Simulation results showed that sinusoidal and shallower designs produce smoother vibration patterns and reduced vertical acceleration, suggesting improved stability and rider control. Sinusoidal rumble strips reduced peak vertical acceleration by approximately 50% compared to conventional milled designs. This was confirmed through interviews with affected motorcyclists. Based on these results, the study recommends implementation of sinusoidal rumble strips in Georgia, as well as updated installation guidance emphasizing context-sensitive design, and regular maintenance to ensure rider safety. These efforts will enhance GDOT’s ability to balance roadway departure crash reduction with the safety needs of vulnerable road users.
• Format:
  PDF
• Funding:
  PI#0019909
• Collection(s):
  US Transportation Collection
• Main Document Checksum:
  urn:sha-512:ed7aaa87debf202983d365319774b17e724bd27d1449b35985f7c8143e4ae9b345da07881bf52eb8170baa22365a735bcef48fde5b330ae8c2d27d8bdd11f312
• Download URL:
  https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/88895/dot_88895_DS1.pdf
• File Type:
  [PDF - 1.92 MB ]