Effect of driver characteristics and traffic-calming measures on speed

Moderating traffic speed is essential for pedestrian safety, particularly in areas where there are crossroads. Identifying how driver characteristics influence the effectiveness of traffic-calming measures can support more targeted interventions. This study examines the impact of driver characteristics (such as driving exposure, age and gender) on speed reduction achieved through various traffic-calming measures.

The research was conducted at a simulated crosswalk near a school on a rural road in the community of Madrid, Spain. Four road markings (green longitudinal line, dragon's teeth, red median, and broken edge line) were evaluated against a base scenario (no traffic-calming measures) using a driving simulator. A general linear model (GLM) was applied, along with analyses of mean, low, and high speeds.

Men drove faster than women, and younger drivers were the fastest group. Those with more driving exposure (annual kilometers driven) also tended to drive faster but responded more strongly to certain markings. The broken edge line was the most effective road marking.

Driver characteristics influence the effectiveness of traffic-calming markings. Designing interventions that consider specific user profiles (such as age, gender, or driving exposure) may enhance road safety near pedestrian crossings. The findings highlight the importance of considering demographic and behavioral factors when designing interventions.

The broken edge line was the most effective measure, reducing average speed by up to around 10 km/h in some groups (e.g., drivers under 50 years old).