The role of geometric standards

This paper examines problems experienced in Australia with the application of geometric standards as a means of achieving consistent and operationally efficient road designs. These problems can be broadly classified into technical and economic. Research has shown that the technical problems have largely arisen from unsubstantiated assumptions regarding driver behaviour and design traffic used in the derivation of the standards. The economic problems have been brought about by financial constraints, which limit the rate at which improvement projects can be carried out. The Australian experience is discussed in terms of its implications for developing countries and it is concluded that geometric standards appropriate to highly motorised countries with well established road networks may not be the most appropriate for regions where road transport is less developed.