Effects of Rainfall on Driver Behaviour and Gap Acceptance at Multilane Roundabouts

Abstract

Background: This paper filled an important gap in the behaviour of driver and gap acceptance model at multilane roundabouts by investigating their traffic performances during rainfall. Introduction: The study carried out an investigation into the impact of rainfall on driver’s behavioural changes and gap acceptance characteristics. Follow-up time headway and gap time were used as proxies. Methodology: Traffic volume, speed, vehicle type and headway data were collected at selected multilane roundabouts in Durban, South Africa. All surveyed roundabouts are within rain gauge catchment area of about 1km. Rainfall intensity was divided into three groups (light, moderate, and heavy). Dry weather data were used as control parameters. Data Analysis: Stepwise data analytical technique was used for ease of explanation and clarity. All model equations were tested for statistical fitness and deemed satisfactory for further analysis. Conclusion: Based on the synthesis of evidence obtained from driver’s behavioural changes and gap acceptance characteristics at multilane roundabouts, the paper concluded that it is correct to suggest that rainfall would have a profound effect on follow-up time headway and critical gap acceptance. However, the effect diminishes gradually as volume to capacity ratio approaches peak traffic operation. Once the threshold value of 0.85 is reached the diminishing effect of rainfall as the sole actuator of anomalous time headway increase is noticeable.