User-satisfaction based operational evaluation for uncontrolled intersections under mixed traffic

Abstract

The objective of this study is to assess operational performance of uncontrolled intersections by creating motorized level of service models using advanced heuristic techniques like functional networks, ordered Probit, ordered Logit, and multivariate auto-regressive spline for uncontrolled intersections under mixed traffic conditions. A novel “Influence area” method for critical gap and follow-up-time measurement is also developed. Over 7000 useful uncontrolled intersections, motorized driver responses are collected based on user satisfaction scores (1 for excellent to 6 for very bad). Eight variables with high significance (<0.001) effects on perceived scores from Spearman’s correlation technique are modelled. According to the sensitivity analysis, analogous to the proposed functional network model, volume to capacity ratio (highest effect), percentage of on-street parking (second highest effect) and service delay (third highest effect) showed superlative sensitivity towards level of service predictions at uncontrolled intersections compared to other parameters. The imperative outcomes of this research may help transport planners and traffic engineers to quantify operational evaluation of uncontrolled intersections and take crucial decisions towards their improvement.

Keywords

• Operational
• Level of service
• Mixed traffic
• Uncontrolled intersections
• User-satisfaction