Effect of Crash Barriers on Driver Behavior

Road accidents pose public health concerns, incurring substantial costs. While crash barriers are recognized for preventing accidents, their impact on driver behavior in mild road curves remains understudied. This study addresses the gap by investigating crash barrier influence on vehicle speed and lateral displacement. A Class “AB” road with consecutive mild curves, one with a crash barrier and one without, underwent controlled analysis. Drones captured speeds and lateral positions. SPSS t-tests revealed significant differences (P < 0.05) in speeds and displacements at curves with and without barriers. Regression analysis showed road conditions did not significantly affect speeds; middle and exit speeds depended on entering speed and crash barrier presence. Vehicle speed at curves with barriers decreased, indicating heightened safety perception. Vehicles approached the centerline with barriers, posing head-to-head collision risks. Recommendations include widening lanes near crash barriers. In conclusion, crash barriers can have both positive and negative effects on driver behavior, requiring careful consideration.