The Calculation of the Remaining Service Life Based on the Pavement Distress Data

The distress points, which are the numerical values assigned to pavement distress are not universal or standardized. Most agencies assign these points based on past experience with the intention to periodically calibrate them. The distress points significantly affect the distress indices, the life cycle cost, the remaining service life (RSL), and the accuracy of the pavement decisions. Distress data were obtained from four State Departments of Transportation. The data were analyzed and the RSL was calculated and equalized to the dollar values of the network and its rate of depreciation. Results of the analyses are presented in this paper. It is shown that the RSL could be calculated without the need to assign distress points. It is also shown that the weighted average RSL of the network reflects the dollar value of the network and its rate of depreciation. The RSL could be used to support accurate pavement decisions.