Crash cushions vary in geometry and cost. In this study, crash cushions were categorized in three different categories: redirecting with repair costs greater than $1,000 (RGM), redirecting with repair costs less than $1,000 (RLM), and nonredirecting sacrificial (NRS). Typically, RGM systems are less expensive initially, but life-cycle costs are high. RLM systems typically reciprocate this trend. NRS crash cushions (e.g., sand barrels) are generally less expensive but require total replacement after a crash has occurred, which may be impractical at high-traffic volume locations. Due to limited funding, there is often a need to identify the most cost-effective crash cushion category for highway scenarios with different roadway, traffic, and roadside characteristics. This study was commissioned to determine benefit-cost ratios for each crash cushion category in a wide range of roadway and roadside characteristics using the probability-based encroachment tool, Roadside Safety Analysis Program. Only RGM and RLM systems were cost-effective for freeways and divided rural arterials, but all three categories competed against the unprotected condition on undivided rural arterials and local roads.
[1]
Dean L Sicking,et al.
REAL-WORLD IMPACT CONDITIONS FOR RUN-OFF-THE-ROAD ACCIDENTS (DISCUSSION AND CLOSURE)
,
1986
.
[2]
L King,et al.
THE NEW AASHTO METRIC POLICY ON GEOMETRIC DESIGN OF HIGHWAYS AND STREETS
,
1995
.
[3]
Dean L Sicking,et al.
Roadway Departure and Impact Conditions
,
2010
.
[4]
K Close,et al.
AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF STATE HIGHWAY AND TRANSPORTATION OFFICIALS COMPUTER SYSTEMS INDEX
,
1976
.
[5]
Scott Peterson,et al.
Guidelines for Guardrail Implementation
,
2009
.
[6]
S. Emerson,et al.
AASHTO (American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials). 2001. A Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets. Fourth Edition. Washington, D.C.
,
2007
.