The development of Malaysian highway-rail level crossing safety systems: a proposed research framework

The primary aims of this research project are: (a) To identify the factors contributing to the highway rail accidents at level crossings in Malaysia; (b) To develop highway rail accident empirical models; (c) To establish the optimum sight distance at interference of highway – rail level crossings; and (d) To identify the road user perception and attitude towards traffic signals or stop signs at highway-rail level crossings. To achieve the objectives, the research work is divided into two major parts which include both qualitative and quantitative elements. Primary data collection will be from field study and qualitative assessment. Field study will cover on site surveys of highway-rail geometric design, sight distance and breaking distance at highway rail-grade crossing critical spot locations. Questionnaires will be distributed to gather the information on road users’ perception and attitude towards traffic signals or stop signs at highway-rail level crossings. The result of the study will feed into the development of Malaysian highway-rail level crossing safety systems. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see IRRD abstract no. E216410.