BENEFITS/IMPACTS OF TWO-WAY CENTRE LEFT-TURN LANE ON ARTERIAL ROAD OPERATION

The objective of this study was to examine the operating parameters of two way left turn lanes (2wltl's) in terms of quantitative benefits/disbenefits, based on previous studies and available data from metro Toronto. A comprehensive evaluation of the safety effects of installing seven and five lane sections of 2wltl's and 5 lane hatched sections was conducted. Before and after accident statistics were compared for the test sections. It was concluded that properly designed and operated 2wltl's increase capacity, while reducing delays, congestion and frequency of accidents and injuries. The median lane should be in the range from 3.0 to 4.2 metres for the entire stretch. The hatched sections that do not adhere to this had increased accident and injury rates in Toronto. Where pedestrians cross frequently, there should be some provision for this movement at specific locations.