Wrong-Way Driving Prevention

Abstract

Wrong-way driving (WWD) crashes are rare on Central Florida roadways. However, WWD is a severe hazard, especially on high-speed limited access roadways. This research developed the first driver survey to obtain details about unreported WWD events on Central Florida toll roads and freeways. This phone survey asked participants about WWD events witnessed either by the participant or by a family member, friend, or acquaintance. The 400 completed surveys showed that State Road 408 (SR-408) and Florida's turnpike (SR-91) experienced the most WWD events. Fourteen percent of the WWD events resulted in a crash, and only 10% of the WWD events witnessed by participants were reported to law enforcement or roadway agencies, even though 50% of the events caused the survey participants to feel a high risk of danger. These results show that WWD is more frequent than indicated by crashes or 911 calls. On the basis of these results, the Central Florida Expressway Authority (formerly known as the Orlando–Orange County Expressway Authority) is pilot testing and evaluating the use of rapid rectangular flashing beacons (RRFBs) as a WWD countermeasure. This test will be the first use of RRFBs to combat WWD. Elsewhere, Florida's Turnpike Enterprise is installing flashing “Wrong Way” signs along the Homestead Extension (SR-821) and Sawgrass Expressway (SR-869) in South Florida, and the Florida Department of Transportation is implementing a variety of WWD countermeasures at I-10 ramps in Tallahassee in North Florida.