Estimation of Conflicting Traffic Volume for Uncontrolled Median Openings Using Spatiotemporal Factor

Conflict traffic volume is one of the crucial parameters for U-turn capacity estimation at the mid-block median opening (MBMO). Therefore, the present study is undertaken for the estimation of conflicting traffic volumes at MBMO. In this regard, a simple yet practical methodology has been proposed, and a parameter named spatiotemporal conflicting factor has been introduced. In order to estimate spatial conflicting factor, the entire carriageway-width was divided into two zones namely, spatial conflict zone and spatial no-conflict zone. Spatial conflicting factor was estimated by studying the placement characteristics of approaching through traffic and U-turning traffic. Subsequently, temporal conflicting factor was estimated based on no-conflict time gap and possible slowdown section. Afterward, spatiotemporal conflicting factor and resulted conflicting traffic volume was estimated for MBMO in 6-lane and 4-lane road. The present investigation's tangible outcome is to estimate the realistic capacity values of median openings, which will be beneficial for traffic planners for efficient management of traffic for an improved level of service and safety.