Comparative Study of Pedestrian Critical Gap Estimation Methods at Unsignalized Midblock Crosswalks

Abstract

This study determines critical gaps using different methods like Raff’s, maximum likelihood (MLM), root-mean-square (RMS), probability equilibrium (PEM), and logit. These are then compared to single out the most appropriate one. Five locations in the western part of India are studied, selected based on type of land use, number of lanes, and carriage-way width. Video cameras were used to capture the mixed-traffic flow and pedestrian crossing movements simultaneously. The results also conclude that logit method is the most appropriate one for estimating critical gap, as it considers the effect of pedestrian behaviour and vehicular characteristics concurrently. The critical gap values vary considerably when pedestrian characteristics are considered. The results are expected to provide inputs for framing design parameters for pedestrian crossing facilities, thereby enhancing pedestrian safety.