Impacts of Red-Light Enforcement Cameras on Start-Up Lost Time at Urban Signalized Intersections

Abstract

Red-light cameras (RLCs) are used extensively in numerous countries as a tool to regulate traffic and enhance safety at signalized urban intersections. In this regard, a case study conducted in the Dammam metropolitan area has uncovered a potential unintended consequence of RLC usage. The presence of RLCs can lead to an increase in first-vehicle reaction time (FVRT), resulting in a higher start-up lost time (SLT) at these intersections. To investigate this phenomenon, data were collected from two distinct types of locations wherein three intersections were equipped with RLCs and three were without RLCs. A total of 311 observations or cycles were recorded, with 72 belonging to the first type and 239 belonging to the second type. The analysis revealed that the average FVRT for the intersections with RLCs was 4.27 s. For those without RLCs, it was slightly lower, at 3.68 s. Similarly, the average SLT for the RLC-equipped intersections was 3.63 s, while it measured 2.73 s at the non-RLC intersections. These findings highlighted a noticeable disparity in SLT between the two types of intersections. Further statistical analysis confirmed the existence of significant differences in the means of SLT and FVRT for the two categories of intersections. Specifically, for every 1-second delay in FVRT per location, the total SLT at intersections with RLCs increased by 7.5 s. These results underscored the potential impact of RLCs on traffic efficiency and supported the recommendation for implementing a red-light countdown system at intersections with RLCs. Such a system has the potential to reduce the FVRT and enhance traffic flow. These findings emphasize a careful consideration of the implications of RLC implementation and provide valuable insights for traffic management authorities.