Study of the impact of introducing stop-control at uncontrolled intersections using computer simulation

The driver of a vehicle approaching an uncontrolled intersection, one where no control device whatsoever is provided, must be able to perceive a hazard in sufficient time to alter the vehicle's speed as required before arriving at the intersection. Because there is a high probability of occurrence of conflict between vehicles which may lead to accidents, uncontrolled intersections are of particular concern. Because of this, there is a need to improve the level of safety at these intersections. Providing STOP control is the most common methodology adopted to improve the level of safety. This study is focused on simulating traffic flow through uncontrolled intersections by using an available simulation model. Then the model is modified to simulate the traffic flow in order to study in detail the traffic flow characteristics. The results of simulation experiments showed that the intersection area with stopped delay caused to vehicles is less in the case of stop-controlled intersections than in uncontrolled intersections. In addition, it was found that, measuring in terms of number of crossing conflicts, the accident risk is more at uncontrolled intersections than at stop-controlled intersections. Finally, guidelines for introducing STOP control at uncontrolled intersections have been developed, based on the results of the analyses.