Statistical Validation of the Effect of Lateral Line Location on Pavement Marking Retroreflectivity Degradation

Abstract

This article examines the effect of lateral location on the degradation of retroreflectivity in thermoplastic pavement-marking systems. The authors examined data collected on North Carolina roads over a 5-year period and conducted a statistical analysis to determine if there was a significant difference in the rates of retroreflectivity degradation between edge lines and center lines. The study concluded that there was statistical evidence that lateral line location does have an effect on retroreflectivity degradation and that center lines degrade faster than edge lines. Understanding retroreflectivity performance over time facilitates the development and implementation of guidelines and tools that can be used for holistic asset management. Based on their findings, the authors recommend changes in pavement-marking maintenance strategies.