Abstract
Traffic signals affect the safety and efficiency of traffic operations. Flashing-signal operation reduces delay during low volume periods and may conserve energy. However, flashing operation may adversely affect the safety of the intersection. In this thesis, the relative impacts of flashing signal operation versus regular signal operation were evaluated in several cities and towns in the State of Texas. Analysis were conducted to determine whether an increase in accidents and accident severity occurred at intersections under flashing operation compared to those operating in the normal mode. A statistical analysis was conducted to determine the safety of flashing signal operation. No significant increases in accidents or accident severity were found with flashing signal operation. A recommendation based on the findings of this study is for a flashing implementation guideline based on a zero daytime accident history. Suggested further research included the evaluation of flashing operation at "T" intersections, and the affects of intersection inter-connection, varying approach speed, and traffic volumes.
Obermeyer, Michael Edward (1993). Analysis of accidents during flashing operations. Master's thesis, Texas A&M University. Available electronically from
https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /ETD -TAMU -1993 -THESIS -O11.