Delineation of urban freeway gore area crash cushions

This report summarizes the research activities concerning urban freeway gore area vehicle impact attenuator (crash cushion) delineation. Included in this report are the results of a survey of sdhpt district delineation practices for gore area crash cushions, an analysis of the long term effectiveness of crash cushion delineation treatments at sites in houston and fort worth where previous delineation research had been conducted, and an analysis of the motorist information system upstream of three gore area crash cushion locations. The survey found that most districts used some type of delineation on crash cushions, but varied considerably as to the type and amount of delineation used, from small type 1 object markers to nose/ back panels and flashing lights. The long term evaluations indicated that the delineation treatments installed several years ago in houston and fort worth had maintained their effectiveness in reducing gore area encroachment rates and crash cushion repairs over time. As a result of the evaluation of the motorist information systems at three sites, recommendations were made in an attempt to further reduce the crash cushion accidents occurring at these sites (a).