Consistency of interchange outer connection ramps

Abstract

Interchange ramps need a proper and consistent geometric design to avoid possible traffic accidents. The objective of this study is to develop guidelines for consistent design of outer connection ramps. As such, 47 ramps were selected from 18 different interchanges in Jordan. Free-flow speed measurements, for different vehicle classes, were taken along ramps and at predefined points. Also, traffic accidents, geometric variables, and traffic volumes were obtained. For circular ramps, the analysis indicated that the operating speed reduction is strongly affected by radius and deflection angle of the curve. The radius of the first curve had the greatest impact on speed reduction on curve–straight–curve ramps. For reverse-curve ramps, the ratio of the radii should be 6:4:9 to achieve a good consistent design for cars, provided that the radius of the first curve exceeds 110 m. Further analysis indicated that speed reduction, geometric variables, and traffic volume influenced the occurrence of accidents.