ROAD SAFETY AUDIT
I-195 WESTPORT
MAJOR HIGHWAY MEDIAN
CROSS-OVER CRASHES
Prepared for
Prepared by
MS Transportation Systems, Inc.
Framingham, Massachusetts
September 2008
ROAD SAFETY AUDIT
I-195 WESTPORT
MAJOR HIGHWAY MEDIAN
CROSS-OVER CRASHES
September 2008
Prepared for
Massachusetts Highway Department
Prepared by
MS Transportation Systems, Inc.
300 Howard Street P.O. Box 967
Framingham, Massachusetts 01701
508-620-2832 508-620-6897 (fax)
www.mstransportationsystemsinc.com
I-195 Westport Median Cross-Over RSA
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
INTRODUCTION
1
RSA PROCESS
3
ANALYSIS
8
SUMMARY OF RSA FINDINGS/POTENTIAL ACTIONS
13
RECOMMENDATIONS
17
APPENDIX
20
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I-195 Westport Road Safety Audit
Introduction
Lane departure crashes are one of the primary fatal crash types in Massachusetts. The
Commonwealth exceeds the national average for the proportion of fatal lane departure
crashes and was designated a lead state in lane departure crashes by the American
Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO).
The
Massachusetts Highway Department (MassHighway) conducted a study of the problem
and found that during 2002-2004, lane departure crashes accounted for 25 percent of all
injury crashes and nearly half, 46 percent, of all fatal crashes.
As part of the effort in implementing the safety plan and specifically reducing lane
departure crashes, the MassHighway is completing a Road Safety Audit (RSA) Review
Project specifically focused on median crossing (or median cross-over) crashes on its
major highways. Road safety audits are a formal safety performance examination on
existing or future roadways by an independent audit team. These specific audits are
being conducted in locations where cross-over experience has been or has the potential
to be of concern and where the RSA team has judged that factors exist that could affect
the safety risk. During the audit, the RSA team works to identify opportunities for
enhancing safety and to recommend specific enhancements intended to reduce median
cross-over crashes and improve the overall safety along the highway.
A RSA was conducted as part of this overall program for a 1.4 mile of I-195 in Westport
(near Interchange No. 10 (Route 88)). Figure 1 shows the corridor section under study.
The purpose of this I-195 Westport RSA is to identify current safety conditions on the
highway section under study and to recommend a set of actions to address the identified
issues. Recommendations contained in this report reflect the overall consent of the RSA
team and do not necessarily reflect the official views of MassHighway.
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Page 1
Fall River
Route 24
195
Interchange 10
Interchange 9
Study Section
Interchange 11
Route 88
195
Reed Road
Westport
N
Project Location
W
I-195 Road Safety Audit
Westport, Massachusetts
MS Transportation Systems, Inc.
E
S
1 : 25,000
Framingham, Massachusetts
FIGURE 1
I-195 Westport Road Safety Audit
RSA Process
The general process outlined in the guideline1 was essentially followed although with
some minor variations to account for the project location being a high speed, high
volume access controlled highway. The RSA team could not stop and gather as a
group along the section without compromising traffic flow or the safety of the project.
Thus, the RSA team members visited the site prior to the team meeting either
individually or in smaller groups. A video recording of a drive-thru in both directions was
collected by the RSA consultant and used at the meeting to review conditions as a
group. Background material and plans were transmitted to the RSA consultant to
compile and review prior to the initial RSA team meeting. Crash and traffic volume data
were transmitted to RSA team members prior to the meeting as well. After the RSA
team meeting was conducted, the RSA consultant gathered the input completed the
analysis and prepared a draft document for team members to review. Data including
summary crash records for the 2004-2007 period, two (2) detailed crash descriptions of
cross-over crashes, and available record highway plans were obtained and reviewed by
the RSA consultant.
•
RSA Team
The following individuals participated in the I-195 Road Safety Audit:
Bill Travers, MassHighway District Maint.
Timothy White, FHWA
Jim Hadfield, SRPEDD
Paul Mission, SRPEDD
Robert Gregory, MassHighway District Traffic
Alolade Campbell, MassHighway, District
Project Development
William J. Scully, MS Transportation Systems
(RSA Consultant)
Lisa Schletzbaum, MassHighway, Safety
Management Unit
Lt. Daniel Mulkern, MSP
Bonnie Polin, MassHighway, Safety
Management Unit
One Hwang, MassHighway Boston
Highway Design
Team members represented various agencies, disciplines and expertise.
•
RSA Meeting
The RSA team met on May 8, 2008 at the MassHighway District 5 Office. The RSA
team members listed above were present at the meeting. At the meeting, the RSA
consultant provided a brief overview of the RSA process, a summary of the roadway
section’s characteristics and the results of the descriptions of geometry, volume and
1
MS Transportation Systems, Inc., Road Safety Audits, Median Cross-Over Crashes, Audit Guidelines,
Prepared for MassHighway, October 2007.
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I-195 Westport Road Safety Audit
crash data and the field visit observations. The video record of the I-195, taken while
driving the corridor was viewed by the team. During and following the video, additional
discussions related to the possible factors related to the cross-median crashes and
possible solutions to prevent or alleviate similar characteristics in the future. The RSA
team provided input on the background, supporting data and the key items observed in
the field and those items that were listed on the RSA Median Cross-Over Prompt List.
Key items noted at the meeting included the following:
 High travel speeds were noticeable.
 The Route 24 southbound to I-195 eastbound occurs in the left lane (or fast)
leaving little or no notice given to Route 24 southbound motorists.
 The median section (about ¾ mile in length) east of the Route 88 interchange
is flatter and more prone to crossing.
 Speeding and driver behavior continues to be a major issue.
 The condition of the paved “official” cross-overs (3) were noted in poor
condition – the question of signing the cross-over encourage inappropriate
usage.
 Crash data suggests most crashes are not cross-median related – other
issues appear to contribute to crash characteristics.
Following the RSA meeting, the RSA consultant compiled the information, completed the
analysis and circulated the draft report to team members.
•
Analysis Procedures
The RSA analysis generally followed the procedure described in the previously
referenced Guideline with some variations and also took into consideration the methods
published by the Federal Highway Administration2 and those included in training
materials3. The basic tasks included:
•
Obtaining and reviewing crash and other traffic characteristic data and
available record plans.
•
Conducting site reconnaissance and collecting a current record of condition
via photos and video,
Identifying potentially hazardous issues, and
Identifying and evaluating potential actions to address the noted issues.
•
•
2
3
Federal Highway Administration, FHWA Road Safety Audit Guidelines, Publication No. FHWA SA-06-06,
Washington, D.C., 2006.
Federal Highway Administration, Resource Center, Road Safety Audits Mini-Workshop, Jeffrey Shaw, PE,
PTOE, presented to New England ITE Section, September 19, 2006.
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I-195 Westport Road Safety Audit
In assessing the issues identified by the RSA Team, the relative seriousness and
potential risk relative to crash frequency and severity were determined. Using the
guidelines of FHWA4 as input and considering characteristics of this specific RSA, the
relative frequency criteria and severity criteria were identified and are presented in Table
1 and Table 2, respectively. Table 1 provides definitions and process in identifying the
frequency rating. Table 2 defines the severity rating in terms of extreme, high and
accurately on.
TABLE 1
FREQUENCY RATING
ESTIMATED
Exposure
high
medium
high
medium
low
high
Probability
high
high
medium
medium
high
low
low
medium
low
medium
low
low
EXPECTED CRASH FREQUENCY
(PER AUDIT ITEM)
5 or more crashes per year
FREQUENCY
RATING
Frequent
1 to 4 crashes per year
Occasional
Less that 1 crash per year, but
more than 1 crash every 5 years
Infrequent
Less than 1 crash every 5 years
Rare
TABLE 2
SEVERITY RATING
Typical Crashes Expected
(per audit item)
Expected Crash Severity
High-speed crashes; head on and
rollover crashes
Moderate-speed crashes; fixed
object or off-road crashes
Crashes involving medium to low
speeds; lane changing or
sideswipe crashes
Crashes involving low to medium
speeds; typical of rear-end or
sideswipe crashes
Probable fatality or
incapacitating injury
Moderate to severe injury
Severity
Rating
Extreme
High
Minor to moderate injury
Moderate
Property damage only or
minor injury
Low
Taking into consideration both frequency and severity, the relative risk of a particular
audit item was rated as shown in Table 3. For each safety issue identified, the potential
seriousness of the issue as well as possible mitigation measures have been indicated.
4
Federal Highway Administration, Resource Center, Road Safety Audits Mini-Workshop, Jeffrey Shaw, PE,
PTOE, presented to New England ITE Section, September 19, 2006.
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I-195 Westport Road Safety Audit
TABLE 3
CRASH RISK ASSESSMENT
Frequency
Rating
Low
Frequent
Occasional
Infrequent
Rare
Crash Risk Ratings:
•
C
B
A
A
Severity Rating
Moderate
High
D
C
B
A
A: minimal risk level
B: low risk level
C: moderate risk level
Extreme
E
D
C
B
F
E
D
C
D: significant risk level
E: high risk level
F: extreme risk level
RSA Field Audit
Field audits were conducted prior to the RSA meeting held on May 8, 2008. The field
audits included several drive-thrus in each direction of travel as well as through the
interchanges. A Prompt List developed for median cross-over RSA’s was used for
further guidance. The Prompt List is included in the Appendix. The following were noted
during the audit:
•
The inside shoulder is about 4+/- feet in width with some off-pavement
leveling area provided depending on specific location, particularly east of the
Interchange.
•
Rumble strips exist on the inside shoulder and are located adjacent to the
edge line.
•
A rumble strip is also in place on the outside shoulder. The outside shoulder
appears to be 10 feet in width (plans confirmed the width).
•
The median is generally a depressed design and grassed for the most part –
there may be drainage structures in the center of the median (plans to be
checked).
•
Roadside slopes west of the Route 88 interchange appear as steep as 6:1
while east of the interchange the grades are relatively flat.
•
Speeds limits are posted at 65 mph with observed motorists generally
traveling above speed limit – few signs were noted.
•
There are imbedded reflectors in the pavement along lane lines.
•
The current pavement markings and roadway/surface are in good condition.
•
Flexible, reflective delineator posts are in place.
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I-195 Westport Road Safety Audit
•
Advance notice to motorists of the Route 88 interchange via signage is
provided approximately one mile prior to the interchange.
•
There is no lighting in the vicinity of the interchange.
•
The two lane Route 88 northbound ramp to I-195 westbound has a long
straight section prior to a relatively sharp curve at I-195 without any
substantive guidance. This was noted as a high volume movement,
particularly during the summer, as Route 88 provides access to the ocean
and state park.
•
The two lane ramp begins its transition to a single lane near the curve and
then into a merge area on I-195.
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I-195 Westport Road Safety Audit
ANALYSIS
Existing Conditions
I-195 in Westport is a major interstate highway that provides east-west movement in
Southeastern Massachusetts that connects with Rhode Island on the west to I-495 in
Wareham to the east. I-195 also serves the major cities of New Bedford and Fall River.
The section under this study is in the immediate vicinity of Route 88 (Interchange No.
10) in Westport. Within 1½ miles to the west of the Route 88 interchange is the
interchange of I-195 with Route 24. The entry lane from Route 24 southbound to I-195
eastbound is a left lane entry lane. In other words, the ramp traffic is merging with I-195
traffic in the left, high-speed lane. This is coupled with a relatively major movement
(particularly in the summer) to Route 88 southbound. There is also an eastbound exit for
Sanford Road located 0.35 miles east of Route 24. Consequently, a significant level of
merging in the high-speed lane and lane changing between Route 24 and Route 88
occurs within a little over one mile.
The roadway in this area consists of three (3) travel lanes per direction. The roadway
also has a full (10 foot) outside shoulder and an inside shoulder in the range of 3 to 4
feet. Rumble strips have been installed on both the inside and outside shoulders. The
alignment is varying but can be characterized as “gentle”. It was noted that the speed
limits are posted at 65 miles per hour (mph). The unpaved portion of the median through
the section ranges from approximately 68 to 80 feet in width. While the length of the
study section is approximately 1.4 miles, a review of the corridor shows that the length of
the “open” median in this section is approximately 4,000 feet with most of this east of the
interchange. Figures 2 through 4 present photographs that depict the current conditions
along the study section.
Figure 2 – I-195 interchange with Route 88
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I-195 Westport Road Safety Audit
Figure 3 – I-195 Eastbound merge area with Route 24
Figure 4 – I-195 Eastbound view of median at Route 88 interchange
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I-195 Westport Road Safety Audit
A review of available safety data was completed as part of this RSA. The review of data
included crash data reported for the years 2004 to 2007. The summary table and spot
map are included in the appendix. Key aspects noted in the data included the following:
Available safety data were reviewed as part of this RSA which included crash data
reported for the years 2004 to 2007. The summary table and spot map are included in
the appendix. Key aspects noted in the data included the following:
 A total of 33 median related crashes reported between 2004 and 2007 or
approximately 8 crashes per year.
 Of the total, 3 or 9% were cross-median.
 Two fatal crashes occurred although neither were classified cross-median
crashes.
 Approximately 50% of total reported crashes resulted in personal injuries.
 Almost two-thirds of reported crashes were initiated by a vehicle traveling on
the EB direction.
 About one-half of the reported crashes occurred during non daylight periods.
 Approximately 30% of reported median related crashes occurred during rain
or snow conditions.
In assessing the characteristics of the crashes, there was no one reason that stood out
among the possible contributing causes. It is generally acknowledged that drivers may
leave the roadway as a result of the following four reasons:




Driver Error
Collision Avoidance
Roadway Condition
Vehicle Component Failure
In reviewing the I-195 crash reports for the section under study, driver error and collision
avoidance are more predominant than the other two reasons. High speeds were cited in
seven (7) crashes while ten (10) crashes were at least partially caused by the driver
swerving to avoid a vehicle or other object in the road.
The traffic volumes observed on I-195 in this section generally exceed 64,000 on an
average weekday. Figure 5 depicts the volume measured in October 2007 east of the
Route 88 interchange. One can see from the chart that directional volumes are
significant in the peak direction during the peak hour with 2,500 to 2,700 vehicles being
exceeded depending on the period and direction. Data from MassHighway’s permanent
count station (No. 601 – Dartmouth) that is east of this project area site October data is
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I-195 Westport Road Safety Audit
at or slightly above average conditions. Summer volumes on I-195 in this area are
approximately 11% higher than average month conditions. As would be expected,
Route 88, however, experiences summer volumes approximately 30% higher than the
average month conditions for that roadway. Historical truck traffic count data were
obtained from MassHighway that showed a 3% truck percentage of the total volume for
both the daily and peak hour periods. Based on the October volume, this amounts to
approximately 150 peak hour truck trips and more than 1,900 over the day.
Figure 5
I-195 Westport Traffic Volume
In summary, the RSA identified a number of physical and operational characteristics as
being contributing factors to the safety issues although each with varied levels of
seriousness. Figure 6 summarizes these key risk factors at or near the interchange.
The major ones include:
¾ High enter/exit volume at Route 88,
¾ Long straight tangent for Route 88 northbound to I-195 westbound
¾ Need for better guidance and traffic control of movement from Route 88
northbound to I-195 westbound, and
¾ Less than adequate warning to I-195 through volume of Route 88
merging traffic.
The next section will discuss these key issues and the potential actions to consider for
addressing them.
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lane drop, merge inadequate markings
long, tangent - high
speed segment
limited guidance
through curve
visibility of entering traffic
limited by topography
flat, open and crossable
median section for next
2,000 +/- feet
Summary of Safety Risk Factors
I-195 at Route 88
I-195 Road Safety Audit
Westport, Massachusetts
MS Transportation Systems, Inc.
Framingham, Massachusetts
Figure 6
I-195 Westport Road Safety Audit
Summary of RSA Findings/Potential Actions
Based on the field review, the review of crash data and discussions among the RSA
team members, the issues related to the safe operating conditions of the I-195 in the
Westport area were identified. There were a number of factors or issues of concern that
were identified as potentially having an effect on the risk and these are listed in Table 4
along with the assigned risk rating.
TABLE 4
SUMMARY OF FACTORS THAT POTENTIALLY AFFECT
THE RISK OF SAFETY RELATED EVENTS
Factor or Issue
Risk Rating
Open median sections
D
High speed tangent Route 88 northbound ramp to I-195
westbound – low level guidance through Route 88
northbound ramp to I-195 westbound
E
Low level guidance through Route 88 northbound ramp to
I-195 westbound
E
Markings for acceleration lanes less than desirable
C
Visibility of Route 88 northbound ramp to I-195 eastbound
ramp is constrained
E
High volume movement between Route 88 and Route 24
E
Speeding and driver behavior is significant in section
C
As shown in Table 4, the more substantive factors that could potentially affect the risk of
an event revolve around travel speeds, sufficient warning to on-coming motorist and
guidance through the interchange. In general, the RSA team felt the drive through the
section was comfortable with the exception of the Route 24 southbound merge with I195 eastbound occurring in the high speed lane (this location was technically outside the
RSA project section) and the guidance provided on the Route 88 northbound ramp to I195 westbound.
That northbound ramp consists of two lanes and after traveling through the first
horizontal curve, the motorists enter a long, straight section leading to the second curve
into the acceleration lanes. Currently, the ramp lane drop begins almost at that second
curve. It was felt that with the high volume on the Route 88 northbound ramp and
resulting merge, that there was a need for improving and enhancing the warning and
motorist guidance through this area.
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I-195 Westport Road Safety Audit
Suggested actions identified are intended to
reduce all crashes on the I-195 and/or reduce
the severity of the crashes were identified
based on the specific issue. The following
paragraphs include discussion pertaining to
the issues and the potential actions to
consider for implement.
•
Consideration of a Median Barrier
One of the more significant actions to be considered is to install median barriers in the
current “open” areas. A barrier can be considered when there is a higher than desirable
chance or a greater risk for median cross-over crashes to occur and that have or could
result in fatalities and/or a high proportion of injury related crashes. In addition, a barrier
could be considered when the consequences or severity of a crash are worse than if the
barrier were in place.
Factors that generally come into play in deciding on whether a median should be
installed involve the following:



High volumes and speeds
Truck volumes and mix
Narrow median
 History of cross-median crashes
 High risk of catastrophic event
These items have been reviewed relative to the I-195 section under study. Figure 7
presents a review of the corridor in relation to the median warrant criteria presented in
the AASHTO RDG5. As can be seen in the diagram, with the median (as measured from
edge line to edge line) is approximately 68 to 80 feet and a volume of approximately
64,000 vehicles on an average day, the intersection of the two items is in the area of the
chart where a barrier is “optional”.
In addition to the chart and related warrant criteria, which is a guideline, further
consideration was given to the following:
ƒ
ƒ
5
A low number of cross-median crashes (9%) in relation to the total median
related crashes over the four (4) year period and the median appears to be
very crossable.
Driver comfort is generally high along I-195 through interchange area.
American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, Roadside Design Guide,
Washington, D.C., 2002, Chapter 6 Update 2006.
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80
AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC
(thousands)
70
BARRIER
RECOMMENDED
60
BARRIER
CONSIDERED
50
40
BARRIER
OPTIONAL
30
20
10
0
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
MEDIAN WIDTH
(feet)
Analysis of Median Barrier Warrant
I-195 Road Safety Audit
Westport, Massachusetts
MS Transportation Systems, Inc.
Framingham, Massachusetts
Figure 7
I-195 Westport Road Safety Audit
Consequently, based on the analysis of the data, the field drive-thru and discussion of
the conditions by the RSA team members, it was concluded by the RSA team that at this
time, the median itself did not require barrier treatment at this time but could be
delineated better. As discussed in the AASHTO guide, where median widths exceed 50
feet, a “barrier is not normally considered except in special circumstances such as a
location with a significant history of cross-median crashes”. Although this study section
has experienced three (3) cross-median crashes over the study period, there have been
frequent occurrences of median entries with two of the median entries resulting in
fatalities. While the evaluation showed a barrier to be “optional”, the median is 80 feet or
less and considered crossable in both east and west of the interchange. Consequently,
the study section is recommended for monitoring and if the frequency cross-median
crashes increase a barrier could be reconsidered. Other actions should be considered
to address the noted risk factors. These are outlined in the next section.
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I-195 Westport Road Safety Audit
Recommendations
As a result of the RSA analysis and team input, a set of recommendations have been
identified and are summarized in Table 5. These actions are intended to reduce the
chance of cross-median crashes, reduce the severity of all crashes and improve the
overall safety condition of this section of I-195 in Westport.
Identified in the table in addition to the risk factor and recommended action are the
estimated costs and potential timeframe (i.e. short (0-1 year), medium (1-3 years)
and long (>3 years)).
The major suggestions for improvement for the I-195 Westport section of road under
study focused on the definition and guidance of the Route 88 on-ramps to both the
eastbound and westbound directions of flow. The recommended actions are also
intended to provide improved advance warning to motorists of merging traffic and
improved guidance for the Route 88 northbound to I-195 westbound movement.
Visibility of the Route 88 northbound on-ramp to I-195 eastbound can be improved
by cutting back the slope and vegetation at the inside end of the ramp.
There are several risk factors in relation to the Route 88 northbound ramp to I-195
westbound movement that can be addressed through markings and signage. It is
recommended that a new overhead caution sign be placed on I-195 westbound
approximately ½ mile prior to the interchange. Figure 8 illustrates a potential legend
for the sign. At the end of the on-ramp, chevron signs should be placed along the
curve. If signage proves inadequate in the future, a fixed barrier may be the long
term solution to prevent any motorists from “missing” the curve and entering the I195 mainline at a 90° angle and potentially crossing the median. Speed “caution”
reminders should also be placed on the straight section of the on-ramp. Finally,
improved markings for the acceleration lanes/lane drop section of the on-ramp
should be provided. An example of the markings and signage are illustrated in
Figure 9.
Flexible delineator posts can be installed to improve the visibility of the roadway and
median. The final suggestion includes increased enforcement of speeds and
inappropriate lane changing in this “zone” between Route 88 and Route 24.
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I-195 Westport Road Safety Audit
TABLE 7
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS
Risk Factor
Risk
Rating
Recommended
Action
Estimated Cost
Estimated
Timeframe
Open median sections
D
ƒ Install delineators
$2,000
ƒ short term
High speed tangent Route 88
northbound ramp to I-195
westbound
E
ƒ Transverse rumble
strips
ƒ Speed “caution”
signs on-ramp
$2,000
ƒ short term
$1,000
ƒ short term
Low level guidance through
Route 88 northbound ramp to I195 westbound
E
ƒ Chevron signs onramp curve
$1,000
ƒ short term
Markings for acceleration lanes
less than desirable
C
ƒ Improved lane
markings
ƒ Add signs
$2,000
ƒ short term
$2,000
ƒ short term
Visibility of Route 88 northbound
ramp to I-195 eastbound ramp is
poor
E
ƒ Clear vegetation &
cut back slope
High volume movement
between Route 88 and Route 24
E
ƒ
Speeding and driver behavior is
significant in sections
C
ƒ Increase
enforcement
Install major
overhead warning
sign (see Figure 12)
on I-195 WB prior to
Route 88
TBD
$20,000
TBD
ƒ medium
term
ƒ
short term
ƒ short term
Figure 8
Potential Sign Legend
I-195 Westbound Prior to Route 88 Merge
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I-195 Westport Road Safety Audit
Appendix
•
•
•
•
•
•
MS Transportation Systems, Inc.
RSA Meeting Agenda
RSA Team Contact List
Median Crash Diagram
Crash Data
Traffic Volume Data
Typical Cross-Section
Page 20
Road Safety Audit
Westport – Interstate 195
Meeting Location: MassHighway District 5 Office
1000 County Street, Taunton
Thursday, May 8, 2008
10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Type of meeting:
Cross Median – Road Safety Audit
Attendees:
Invited Participants to Comprise a Multidisciplinary Team
Please bring:
Thoughts and Enthusiasm!!
10:30 AM
Welcome and Introductions
10:45 AM
Introduction to Road Safety Audits and Cross Median Crashes
11:00 AM
Review of Site Specific Material
• Crash & Volume Summaries– provided in advance
• Existing Geometries and Conditions
• Video and Images
11:30 AM
Completion of RSA
• Identification of Safety Concerns – using RSA Prompt List as a guide
• Identification of Possible Countermeasures
12:30 PM
Adjourn for the Day – but the RSA has not ended
Instructions for Participants:
• Before attending the RSA on May 8th participants are encouraged to drive
Interstate 195 (between interchanges 9 and 11) in Westport and complete/consider
elements on the RSA Prompt List with a focus on safety factors affecting cross
median crashes.
• All participants will be actively involved in the process throughout. Participants
are encouraged to come with thoughts and ideas, but are reminded that the
synergy that develops and respect for others’ opinions are key elements to the
success of the overall RSA process.
• After the initial RSA meeting, participants will be asked to comment and respond
to the document materials to assure it is reflective of the RSA completed by the
multidisciplinary team.
ROAD SAFETY AUDIT MEETING
I-195 Westport - May 8, 2008
MassHighway District 5 Offices, Taunton MA
Attendance List
Name
Agency/Dept.
Email
Bill Scully
MS Transportation Systems, Inc.
bscullyjr@mac.com
Bonnie Polin
MassHighway, Boston
Bonnie.Polin@mhd.state.ma.us
James Hadfield
SRPEDD
Dan Mulkern
State Police
Paul Mission
SRPEDD
Alolade Campbell
MHD, District 5, Project Dev.
Alolade.Campbell@mhd.state.ma.us
Robert Gregory
MHD, District 5, Traffic Oper.
Robert.Gregory@mhd.state.ma.us
Bill Travers
MHD, District 5, Highway Maint.
Bill.Travers@mhd.state.ma.us
One Hwang
MHD, Highway Design
One.Hwang@mhd.state.ma.us
Lisa Schletzbaum
MHD, HQ - Safety Manag. Unit
Lisa.Schletzbaum@mhd.state.ma.us
MS Transportation Systems, Inc.
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195
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88
Legend
Type of Median Crash 2004-2007 *
Major Roads
Cross Median, Non-Fatal Crash
Interstate
Median, Fatal Crash
Principal Arterial
Median, Non-Fatal Crash
Minor Arterial
Municipal Boundary
Collector
Local
* 2007 crash file has not yet been closed.
0
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0.4
28
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MASSACHUSETTS HIGHWAY SAFETY DIVISION
CRASH SUMMARY
ROADWAY:
I-195
STUDY PERIOD:
1/1/2004
CRASH NUMBER
NO.
TO
12/31/2007
CITY:
WESTPORT
LOCATION:
NEAR RT 88 (EXIT#10)
TRAVEL
LIGHT
WEATHER
ROAD
REASON FOR
VEHICLE
MEDIAN OR CROSS
DRIVER CONTRIBUTING
CRASH
DIRECTION
CONDITION
CONDITION
SURFACE
RUNNING OFF ROAD LEFT
MOVEMENT
MEDIAN CRASHES
CAUSE
SEVERITY
1
2157354
WB
Daylight
Rain
Wet
Lost control of vehicle due to low tire pressure
Travel Lane to Median Guardrail
Median
Operating defective equipment
Not Reported
2
1927093
EB
Daylight
Snow
Snow
Vehicle skidded on snowy surface and fishtailed
Travel Lane to Median Guardrail to Right Breakdown Lane
Median
Exceeded Speed Limit
Non-Fatal Injury
3
1899369
WB
Daylight
Cloudy
Dry
Crash avoidance with vehicle
Travel Lane to Median Guardrail to Right Guardrail and back to Travel Lane
Median
Exceeded Speed Limit
Non-Fatal Injury
4
2040968
WB
Dark - Not Lighted
Clear
Dry
Lost control of vehicle
Left Travel Lane to Middle Travel Lane to Median Guardrail
Median
Exceeded Speed Limit
Non-Fatal Injury
5
1805280
WB
Daylight
Clear
Dry
Lost control of motorcycle due to "popping wheelies"
W/B Travel Lane to E/B Travel Lane
Cross Median
Operating vehicle in reckless manner
Non-Fatal Injury
6
1995479
WB
Dark - Not Lighted
Clear
Dry
Lost control of vehicle
Travel Lane to Median Jersey Barrier to Right Guardrail to Left Lane
Median
Alcohol
Non-Fatal Injury
7
2134064
EB
Daylight
Rain
Wet
Lost control of vehicle on wet surface
Travel Lane to Trees in the Median
Median
Swerving due to slippery surface in roadway
Property Damage Only
8
2041059
EB
Dark - Not Lighted
Clear
Dry
Fallen asleep and vehicle overturned
Travel Lane to Far Median
Median
Fatigued/Asleep
Non-Fatal Injury
Property Damage Only
9
1996631
EB
Daylight
Clear
Dry
Lost control of vehicle and struck another vehicle in the right lane
Travel Lane to Median
Median
Exceeded Speed Limit
10
2156797
EB
Dark - Lighted
Cloudy
Ice
Lost control of vehicle due to prescription medications
Travel Lane to Median Jersey Barrier to Trees in the Right Shoulder
Median
Illness
Not Reported
11
1888231
EB
Dark - Not Lighted
Rain
Water
Vehicle hit standing water and hydroplaned
Travel Lane to Median Ditch
Median
Exceeded Speed Limit
Property Damage Only
Property Damage Only
12
1926872
WB
Dark - Not Lighted
Snow
Snow
Vehicle skidded on snowy surface
Travel Lane to Trees in the Median
Median
Swerving due to slippery surface in roadway
13
2051213
EB
Dark - Not Lighted
Clear
Dry
Fallen asleep and vehicle overturned
Travel Lane to Median
Median
Fatigued/Asleep
Non-Fatal Injury
14
2156643
WB
Daylight
Clear
Dry
Lost control of vehicle and overturned
Travel Lane to Median Jersey Barrier to Right Tree Line
Median
Swerving in roadway
Non-Fatal Injury
15
2131929
WB
Daylight
Rain
Wet
Lost control of vehicle in heavy rain
Travel Lane to Median Guardrail
Median
Exceeded Speed Limit
Property Damage Only
16
2219928
WB
Dark - Not Lighted
Rain
Wet
Lost control of vehicle
Travel Lane to Median Guardrail
Median
Failure to keep in proper lane
Non-Fatal Injury
17
2219876
EB
Dark - Not Lighted
Cloudy
Dry
Crash avoidance with unknown animal
E/B Travel Lane to W/B Right Drainage Ditch
Cross Median
Swerving or avoiding due to animal in roadway
Non-Fatal Injury
18
2263995
EB
Dawn
Snow
Wet
Vehicle struck another parked vehicle in the breakdown lane and overturned
Travel Lane to Breakdown Lane to Median
Median
Inattention
Fatal Injury
19
2268468
EB
Daylight
Clear
Dry
Lost control of vehicle
Travel Lane to Middle Median
Median
Swerving in roadway
Property Damage Only
20
1863647
EB
Daylight
Clear
Dry
Lost control of vehicle and entered median
Travel Lane to Median to Trees in the Right Shoulder
Median
Failure to keep in proper lane
Property Damage Only
21
1995681
EB
Daylight
Clear
Dry
Unknown vehicle veered into travel lane and caused another vehicle to overturn
Travel Lane to Median Ditch
Median
Swerving or avoiding due to vehicle in roadway
Property Damage Only
22
2041706
WB
Daylight
Clear
Dry
Vehicle lost control after changing lanes and strike another vehicle
Travel Lane to Median Tree Line
Median
Exceeded Speed Limit
Property Damage Only
23
2236489
EB
Dark - Not Lighted
Clear
Dry
Lost control of vehicle and overturned
On-Ramp to I-195 EB Middle Median Embankment
Median
Swerving in roadway
Non-Fatal Injury
24
2260766
EB
Dark - Not Lighted
Clear
Dry
Fallen asleep and vehicle went off to the median
Travel Lane to Median Emergency Vehicle Turnaround
Median
Fatigued/Asleep
Property Damage Only
25
1996894
EB
Dark - Not Lighted
Clear
Dry
Due to medical reasons driver became unconscious and veered to the left
Travel Lane to Trees in the Median
Median
Illness
Unknown
26
2040928
EB
Dark - Not Lighted
Clear
Dry
Crash avoidance with vehicle from slower moving traffic
Travel Lane to Right Guardrail to Median Guardrail
Median
Inattention
Property Damage Only
27
1930780
EB
Daylight
Clear
Dry
Vehicle changed lanes to an already occupied lane and overturned
Travel Lane to Median to Travel Lane
Median
Failure to keep in proper lane
Fatal Injury
28
1887630
EB
Dark - Not Lighted
Clear
Dry
Vehicle tried to change lanes and swerved to the right
Travel Lane to Right Guardrail to Median Guardrail
Median
Swerving in roadway
Non-Fatal Injury
29*
1978748
EB
Dark - Not Lighted
Clear
Dry
Lost control of vehicle due to an unknown vehicle crossing into travel lane
E/B Travel Lane to W/B Right Breakdown Lane
Cross Median
Swerving in roadway
Property Damage Only
30*
1997127
EB
Dark - Not Lighted
Rain
Wet
Fallen asleep and vehicle drifted into median and overturned
Travel Lane to Trees in the Median
Median
Fatigued/Asleep
Non-Fatal Injury
31*
1997271
WB
Daylight
Blowing Sand, Snow
Dry
Unknown vehicle swerved into travel lane and caused another vehicle to overturn
Travel Lane to Median
Median
Swerving or avoiding due to vehicle in roadway
Property Damage Only
32*
2114461
WB
Dark - Not Lighted
Rain
Wet
Vehicle hydroplaned and entered the median
Travel Lane to Trees in the Median to Right Breakdown Lane
Median
Swerving due to slippery surface in roadway
Non-Fatal Injury
33*
2268335
EB
Daylight
Clear
Dry
Unknown vehicle swerved in the roadway and struck another vehicle
Travel Lane to Median Guardrail to Middle Median
Median
Swerving or avoiding due to vehicle in roadway
Property Damage Only
LIGHT CONDITION
WEATHER CONDITION
TOTAL NO.
DAYLIGHT
DAWN
DARK-LIGHTED
DARK-NOT LIGHTED
CLEAR
CLOUDY
RAIN
SNOW
33
15
1
1
16
19
3
7
3
1
100%
45%
3%
3%
48%
58%
9%
21%
9%
3%
ROAD SURFACE
DRY
WET
SNOW
CRASH SEVERITY
MEDIAN OR CROSS MEDIAN CRASHES
ICE
WATER
MEDIAN
CROSS MEDIAN
BLOWING SAND AND SNOW
PROPERTY DAMAGE
NON-FATAL
ONLY
INJURY
FATAL INJURY
22
7
2
1
1
30
3
14
14
2
67%
21%
6%
3%
3%
91%
9%
42%
42%
6%
CRASH SEVERITY
UNKNOWN
DRIVER CONTRIBUTING CAUSE
NOT REPORTED
EXCEEDED SPEED
FAILURE TO KEEP
OPERATING VEHICLE
SWERVING DUE TO
LIMIT
IN PROPER LANE
IN RECKLESS MANNER
SLIPPERY SURFACE
SWERVING OR AVOIDING DUE TO VEHICLE IN ROADWAY
SWERVING OR AVOIDING DUE TO ANIMAL IN ROADWAY
SWERVING IN
FATIGUED/ASLEEP
ROADWAY
1
2
7
3
1
3
3
1
5
4
3%
6%
21%
9%
3%
9%
9%
3%
15%
12%
DRIVER CONTRIBUTING CAUSE
OPERATING DEFECTIVE
ILLNESS
ALCOHOL
INATTENTION
2
1
2
1
6%
3%
6%
3%
EQUIPMENT
* Crash location was not able to be determined from State Police Crash Form
2007 CRASH INFORMATION ARE NOT COMPLETE
CRASH SUMMARY IS BASED ON CRASH REPORTS WITH STATE POLICE NARRATIVES
Traffic Volume Data for I-195 in Westport
I-195 East of Route 88, October 16, 2007
Eastbound
Westbound
Start time Direction
Direction
TOTAL
12:00 AM
252
168
420
1:00 AM
142
144
286
2:00 AM
112
76
188
3:00 AM
96
91
187
4:00 AM
205
250
455
5:00 AM
565
705
1,270
6:00 AM
1,489
1,899
3,388
7:00 AM
2,210
2,753
4,963
8:00 AM
1,834
2,655
4,489
9:00 AM
1,710
2,166
3,876
10:00 AM
1,627
2,025
3,652
11:00 AM
1,662
1,914
3,576
12:00 PM
1,612
2,056
3,668
1:00 PM
1,757
1,961
3,718
2:00 PM
1,990
2,058
4,048
3:00 PM
2,426
2,665
5,091
4:00 PM
2,481
2,695
5,176
5:00 PM
2,568
2,508
5,076
6:00 PM
2,084
1,863
3,947
7:00 PM
1,316
1,174
2,490
8:00 PM
910
764
1,674
9:00 PM
744
612
1,356
10:00 PM
504
444
948
11:00 PM
372
287
659
Daily Total
30,668
33,933
64,601
3,000
2,500
Eastbound Direction
2,000
Westbound Direction
1,500
1,000
500
Time of Day
11:00 PM
9:00 PM
10:00 PM
8:00 PM
7:00 PM
6:00 PM
5:00 PM
4:00 PM
3:00 PM
2:00 PM
1:00 PM
12:00 PM
11:00 AM
9:00 AM
10:00 AM
8:00 AM
7:00 AM
6:00 AM
5:00 AM
4:00 AM
3:00 AM
2:00 AM
1:00 AM
0
12:00 AM
Hourly Volume (Number of Vehicles)
Hourly Traffic Volumes for I-195, East of Route 88, in Westport
Tuesday, October 16, 2007