@article{ref1,
title="Motorist interpretation of yellow X and yellow diagonal arrow in freeway lane control signal array",
journal="Transportation research record",
year="1995",
author="Wohlschlaeger, Steven D. and Ullman, Gerald L. and Dudek, Conrad L.",
volume="1495",
number="",
pages="9-16",
abstract="Licensed driver interpretation of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD)-approved and experimental transition symbols in a lane control signal (LCS) array is documented. The two symbols tested were the yellow X (MUTCD approved) and the yellow downward diagonal arrow (experimental). These two symbols were displayed in a scene depicting a three-lane freeway section containing one LCS array. The various LCS arrays were representative of typical LCS configurations for a median lane closure. Each transition symbol was tested in combination with two green down arrows and in an array containing one red X and one green down arrow. Overall, the study showed the yellow downward diagonal arrow to be interpreted more consistently and &quot;correctly&quot; given its intended use than the yellow X. Subject responses varied more for the yellow X than for the yellow downward diagonal arrow when a red X was included in the LCS array. In addition, subjects were more likely to interpret the yellow X in a manner that was considered &quot;incorrect&quot; given the intended use of the yellow transition symbols--a problem that was magnified when a red X was incorporated into the LCS array. Subject interpretation of the yellow transition symbols was also affected by the introduction of a red X into the LCS array. The most preferred subject interpretation of the yellow X and yellow downward diagonal arrow was the same when the transition symbols were displayed in an LCS array either with or without a red X. The meaning offered most frequently by subjects was &quot;lane closed, blocked, or closing&quot;. The second most common interpretation of both the yellow X and yellow downward diagonal arrow varied somewhat, however. When displayed with two green down arrows &quot;lane ends physically&quot; was the second most frequent interpretation, whereas introduction of a red X into the LCS array altered subject perception and &quot;lane is congested&quot; became the second most popular meaning.  Record URL:  http://onlinepubs.trb.org/Onlinepubs/trr/1995/1495/1495-002.pdf<p /><p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="0361-1981",
doi="",
url="http://dx.doi.org/"
}