An analysis of red lens strobe signals and their effect on reducing right angle traffic accidents

Many intersections across the United States experience high accident rates due to certain physical limitations and human-related factors. Often times many of these accidents can be attributed to limited sight distance, conflicting background conditions, or possibly the existence of an isolated signal in a rural area. Installation of a red lens strobe signal may potentially alleviate large numbers of certain types of accidents, by helping to drawing the driver's attention to the traffic signal. A limited number of studies have been performed with respect to determining the level of effectiveness of the strobe signals. This study evaluates the effectiveness of red lens strobe signals currently in use in Knoxville. Accident data and volume data were obtained and accident rates were calculated for the intersections. The accident rates for both intersections before strobe installation were compared with the accident rates after installation. Based on a percent reduction in accident rate, this study demonstrates that strobe signals can be effective in reducing right-angle traffic accidents in some instances.