Evaluation of Highway Safety Corridors

Abstract

Several state transportation agencies have recently started highway safety corridor (HSC) programs to reduce crashes, injuries, and deaths on roads with a high rate and frequency of crashes. HSC programs use a coordinated campaign of education, enforcement, and low-cost engineering measures to address safety issues. Fines for moving violations are increased in these HSCs as a way to strengthen the potential impact of enforcement. While several states have implemented these programs, little information is available on how these programs have affected safety. In 2003, Virginia passed legislation establishing a state HSC program that increased fines for moving violations within an HSC. This paper documents the initial evaluation of the HSC program on two Interstate HSCs. Travel speeds before and after the HSC designation are examined at one site, while crash data are presented at both Interstate locations. Public opinions on the HSC program are also discussed. The results of the analysis indicate that little improvement in speed compliance and safety was observed at the congested, urban Interstate site. Significant reductions in crash frequency were observed at the more rural Interstate location, with a reduction in crash frequency of almost 30% being estimated in the most recent year. While results have been mixed for the two corridors, they show promise. More consistent effects may be possible if more dedicated resources are invested in the program.