Investigating Driver Behavior at Minor-Street Stop-Controlled Intersections in Qatar

Abstract

Stop-controlled intersections are dangerous locations in which drivers must negotiate conflicts between traffic streams. This study examined driver stopping compliance at minor-street stop-controlled intersections in Qatar. Several variables that may influence driver behavior when approaching a stop sign were considered—including age, gender, driver heritage differences, vehicle type, presence of an approaching vehicle or a pedestrian, peak and nonpeak hours, weekday versus weekend, and residential versus commercial land use. Binary and ordinal logistic regression models were developed to describe driver stopping behavior as functions of these characteristics. Results indicated an alarmingly low compliance rate with minor-street stop signs. Generally, results indicated that male drivers, young drivers, and SUV drivers are less likely to come to a complete stop at these locations. Results also revealed that drivers are more likely to ignore the stop sign when they notice a vehicle or pedestrian approaching and most likely to beat the approaching vehicle or pedestrian through the intersection and reduce intersection-related delay. These findings raise a major safety concern and indicate aggressive driving tendencies. Potential countermeasures include increasing police enforcement, initiating traffic safety campaigns (e.g., targeting the higher risk drivers identified in the results), and improving the visibility of stop signs using different measures, such as larger and additional stop signs, “Stop Ahead” advance traffic control signs, and enhanced pavement markings.