Analysis of the Behavior of Vehicle Drivers at Signal-Controlled Intersection Approach while Waiting for a Green Signal—A Case Study in Poland

Abstract

The article presents the results of research on the behavior of vehicle drivers who, in the congested city road network (during the transport peak period), were unable to pass a traffic light-controlled intersection during one signaling cycle. They were therefore forced to wait in line at least once on the red signal before they could continue their journey. Empirical research was conducted at several intersections with traffic lights in Poland, in the cities of Bydgoszcz and Toruń. In addition, the database was supplemented with the results of surveys, which were decided to be conducted in the form of electronic form during the COVID-19 pandemic through dedicated surveys and social networking sites. The analysis of the results of field studies confirms that most drivers commit traffic offenses in the form of using mobile devices in their hands (over 60%) in the period after the start of transmitting the red signal and after stopping the vehicle. Interestingly, less than 40% of respondents admitted this offense in the survey.

Keywords

• drivers’ behaviors
• signal-controlled intersections
• traffic engineering