11.2 Engineering Countermeasures to Reduce Red Light Running

  • Factors that influence the likelihood of drivers running red lights include traffic volume, cycle length, advance detections for green extension, speed, signal coordination, yellow interval duration, proximity to other vehicles, presence of heavy vehicles, intersection width, and signal visibility. Table 11.1 lists countermeasures that can be used by designers to reduce red light running.
Table 11.1 Design Countermeasures to Reduce Red Light Running
Focus Countermeasure
Traffic Characteristics, Operation, or Geometrics
  • Reduce approach speed by 5 mph
  • Remove unneeded signals
  • Add capacity with additional lanes or turn bays
Motorist Information
  • Improve signal visibility by adjusting the location and/or number of signals
  • Remove obstructions that block sight lines to the signals
  • Install advance warning signs (with or without flashers) and/or red-light enforcement cameras
* The HFG lists other countermeasures, but they fall outside the purview of designers.

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