The Effectiveness of LCD’s – A Study

Statement of the Problem
Work zones create unexpected conditions for all road users. In some cases, the complexity of the work zone can make it difficult for drivers to identify the correct travel path, which can result in driver confusion and possibly intrusion into the work zone. Longitudinal channelizing devices (LCDs) may be used instead of a line of cones, drums, or barricades. However, research has not been conducted to assess whether LCDs improve the traffic safety and operations of work zones relative to the use of other types of channelizing devices. Thus, in Texas there is currently no guidance regarding the work zone configurations and conditions where LCDs should be considered in lieu of other channelizing devices.

Background: Traditional Channelizing Devices
The function of channelizing devices is to warn road users of conditions created by work activities in or near the roadway and to guide them safely through the work zone area. Traditional channelizing devices include drums, cones, tubular markers, vertical panels, and barricades (shown in Figure 1). The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) (1) defines the minimum (and in some cases maximum) requirements for channelizing devices, including size, retroreflective material, and color. In addition, the MUTCD recommends the following criteria for channelizing device spacing in taper and tangent sections, independent of the specific device used…

If you would like to read more. Please download the study: TTI Paper on LCD’s.