Citation

Morrall JF, Hoban CJ. Traffic Eng. Control 1985; 26(10): 476-484.

Affiliation

Australian Road Research Board, Nunawading, Australia.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1985, Hemming Group)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Although overtaking lane design guidelines have evolved independently in Canada and Australia there are a number of common elements. These include: advance notification of the overtaking lane: a keep left unless overtaking sign at the diverge point; advance notification of the merge and signs at the merge; and some indication for traffic in the opposing lane that they are facing an overtaking lane. There is general agreement that the provision of short overtaking lanes at regular spacing is more cost-effective than the provision of a few long ones, but Australian recommended lengths are shorter than those in Canada. Overly-restrictive barrier lines for the opposing lane, especially on low-volume roads where sight distance is adequate, can be counterproductive by causing platooning and driver frustration. Bunching is suggested as the level of service measure best suited for determining the need for and evaluation of overtaking lanes. Research needs for overtaking lanes are highlighted.