THE EFFECT OF PRIORITY SCHEMES ON SPEEDS AND CROSSINGS BEHAVIOUR

Introducing priority schemes at intersections is thought to increase the speed of motor car traffic causing more hazards for pedestrians and cyclists crossing the road. In Nieuw-Vennep before-and-after studies were carried out on a number of roads adjacent to the built-up area, where a priority scheme was implemented. The conclusions are that speeds only increased where much traffic is crossing the main road. Pedestrians and cyclists now seem to accept smaller gaps when crossing. The number of accidents is believed to decrease. (TRRL)