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Abstract
The general objective of this research was to evaluate the effectiveness of an organized public information and education program coupled with targeted enforcement in deterring red light running activity at signalized intersections. Also, it was desired to evaluate the effectiveness of a public information and education program and targeted enforcement in educating the public on the hazards of red light running, and change societal attitudes towards it. To achieve the objectives of this research, field data were obtained for six signalized intersections, utilizing video technology and field observers. Also, a survey was conducted to obtain attitudinal data for 1,185 drivers. The field data included 11 variables that assess drivers' behavior to the yellow and red signal indications. Data were collected before and after the public information and education program that was implemented for one month. The study results indicated that, generally, the combination of a public information and education program was found to have a significant effect on the behavior of drivers approaching an intersection after the onset of the yellow light. However, the additional targeted enforcement did not have an effect. Right-angle accidents resulting from red light running can be significantly reduced through the implementation of a public information and education program.
Drivers' awareness of the hazards associated with red light running, and the perceived probability of apprehension as a result, were also found to improve significantly as a result of the public information and education program and targeted enforcement. These changes among drivers indicate that such programs are effective in deterring the red light running activity at signalized intersections. The implication of this result is that governmental agencies should consider allocating more funds towards "traffic safety oriented" educational and enforcement programs. Considering the impact of video surveillance in this study, automated enforcement technologies, such as red light running cameras, should be evaluated for further use at signalized intersections.
