Road Safety Audit Checklist at Preliminary Design Stage

It is important that any previous road safety audits carried out are reviewed in order to allow subsequent design changes. If it is a major project then it is also advisable to determine the amount land required to meet all the safety requirements.

It is essential to check any elements of horizontal and vertical alignments in order to minimize any hazards caused by reduced sight-lines.This is particularly important where the scheme departs from normal standards. In regards to sight-lines consider all other obstructions that may be caused by such things as parapets, bridge abutments, structures and street furniture.

Junctions are critical places, often a source of delay and where collisions tend to occur. Therefore it is essential to review all conflict points at junctions (especially private access points) in order to minimize hazards. Check the visibility of the actual junction upon approach including sight-lines from minor roads and private access points. All things considered it is important to control approach speed to the junction and review the layout of the approach roads. It is also good practice to consider nay provision for turning traffic as well as location and access of lay-bys.

What else needs to be reviewed within the preliminary design?

1. The impact of landscaping
2. Perceptions of road users towards road markings and signage
3. Provision of safety aids on steep hills
4. Provision of facilities for other highway users such as pedestrians, cyclists and horse-riders
5. Potential for flooding due to inadequate drainage
6. Any maintenance arrangements

Modal Group are transport planning consultants that also provide traffic surveys and road safety audits.
If you would like to find out more about Modal's Road Safety Audit services contact Petros Price via the website at Traffic Consultants.