Two Lane Roads with Multifunctional Median Lane

Abstract

The paper presents use of multifunctional median lanes in two-lane two-way roads instead of paved shoulders on national roads through villages. Traffic safety problems caused by paved shoulders and reasons for their reconstruction are listed, followed by description and purpose of cross-sections with multifunctional median lanes. Efficiency analyses on several factors are described, including: travel time, risk exposure, accidents, victims, speed and headways. Additionally observations on the median lane use by drivers and results of road users’ satisfaction surveys are presented. The authors conclude that multifunctional median lanes are more beneficial than paved shoulders and special design guidelines are needed.