MOTORIST INFORMATION NEEDS AND CHANGEABLE MESSAGE SIGNS FOR ADVERSE WINTER TRAVEL

The information needs of motorists during adverse winter travel conditions were evaluated. Commuters traveling on Interstate 80 between Laramie and Cheyenne, Wyoming, and Interstate truck drivers were the primary sources of field data. During poor winter travel conditions, motorists were asked to evaluate wind, visibility, and pavement conditions and to assign a severity rating between 1 (ideal conditions) and 6 (road closed). The survey participants also indicated their desired road and travel information for changeable message signs. The results indicated that motorists have generally consistent adverse winter travel information needs. Pavement condition was the primary information desired. Visibility was the secondary needed information; however, when pavement condition was poor, visibility information became more important. The local commuters most often sought road and travel information from the winter travel advisory phone. The primary source for Interstate truckers was the citizens band radio. The changeable message sign was indicated as an important source by almost 70% of the local commuters and 40% of the Interstate truckers surveyed.