Investigation of Impacts of Truck Lane Restrictions on Multilane Highways Using Micro Traffic Simulation

This study was performed to investigate impacts of truck lane restrictions on multilane highways on traffic flow variables such as average speed, the frequency of lane changes, and change in traffic volume and also to verify whether or not different lane restriction scenarios were proper. Two types of hypothetical highway networks and OD demands were developed for traffic simulation models in order to conduct the experimental study. Three types of scenarios were also developed according to the number of restricted lanes for trucks. The PARAMICS microscopic traffic simulation software package was used as the primary analytical tool. Statistical analysis was conducted with simulation outputs. Results showed that truck lane restrictions may lead to positive impacts on traffic flow on multilane highways. In addition, this study demonstrated that the number of restricted lanes can be very an important factor to lead successful implementation of truck lane restrictions.