Modeling Driver Behavior in Dilemma Zone under Mixed Traffic Conditions

Abstract

Abstract When signal changes from green to yellow at a signalized intersection, often drivers become skeptical, whether to cross the intersection or stop without entering the intersection. Improper decision might lead to right angle collision or rear end collision. The area in which the drivers are skeptical is termed as dilemma zone or indecision zone. Most of the studies in the literature have investigated the dilemma zone driving behavior in homogeneous traffic conditions, but traffic in developing countries like India is heterogeneous containing various vehicle types, where vehicles vary in their physical dimensions and dynamic characteristics. The main motive of this study is to investigate the factors influencing the driver behavior in dilemma zone at signalized approaches in India under mixed traffic conditions. This study investigated the driver behavior by videotaping 398 driver responses at two signalized intersection approaches with different yellow durations. Binary logistic regression model is developed to represent the driver behavior in mixed traffic conditions. Vehicle type, which is a characteristic of mixed traffic conditions is found to have a significant impact on the driver’s decision process along with the vehicle speed, distance from the stop line and duration of yellow signal.