In-Service Performance Evaluation of Bullnose Median Barriers in Iowa
Publication: Journal of Transportation Engineering
Volume 129, Issue 1
Abstract
This paper presents results of an in-service performance evaluation of the bullnose median barrier used in the state of Iowa. The data were collected in a four-county portion of Iowa during a 24-month data collection effort from 1997 to 1999. The bullnose barriers in the data collection area were usually installed consistent with Iowa DOT policy and represent good quality installations. Their collision performance was assessed in terms of collision characteristics, occupant injury, and barrier damage. While the data set for this study was small, examination of the collisions indicates that impacts at and near the nose often resulted in unacceptable vehicle behavior and severe occupant injuries. The data suggest that there is a need to develop median treatments that prevent vehicles from penetrating the system and contributing to injuries of vehicle occupants.
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References
AASHTO. (1977). Guide for selecting, locating and designing traffic barriers, Washington, D.C., 214.
AASHTO-ARTBA-AGC. (1995). A guide to standardized highway barrier hardware, Washington, D.C., Drawing SEW 10.
Adolfson, R. A. (1977). “Performance evaluations of a 5-ft radius guardrail installation.” Minnesota DOT Research Standards Section Rep.
Bielenberg, W. W., Reid, J. D., Sicking, D. L., Faller, R. F., Rhode, J. R., and Keller, E. A. (1998). “Concept development of a bullnose guardrail system for median applications.” Nebraska Department of Roads, 71.
Bronstad, M. E., Ray, M. H., and Mayer, J. B. (1987). Median barrier terminals and median treatments, Federal Highway Administration, Washington, D.C.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Transportation Engineering
Volume 129 • Issue 1 • January 2003
Pages: 69 - 76
Copyright
Copyright © 2003 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Nov 6, 2001
Accepted: Feb 22, 2002
Published online: Dec 13, 2002
Published in print: Jan 2003
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