Evaluation of an Animal Warning System Effectiveness Phase Two

An animal detection system using microwave break-a-beam technology to detect objects crossing the roadside was investigated. This system incorporates radars, video cameras, communication links, and computer hardware and software. Ten months' of baseline and actual data were collected to analyze the effectiveness of the PATH Animal Warning System (PAWS). Test results for reliability of the selected animal detection system also were analyzed at a controlled access facility. The results of two different experimental methodologies agreed that there was some reduction in the mean speeds of the drivers when dynamic animal warning signs were illuminated, and those speed reductions were greater during the evening, overnight, and early morning hours when deer and other wildlife tend to be more active. There was no evident driver adaptation over time to the warnings provided by the PAWS system.

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