Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 1
Purpose and Benefits of Road Lighting
Abstract
Decisions to invest in road-lighting installations can only be made sensibly
if there is a clear insight into the purpose and benefits of road lighting. For motorized
traffic, road lighting should provide visual performance and visual comfort and help
to keep the driver alert. Many different studies have shown that good road lighting can
reduce night-time accidents. In countries with peak hours in the hours of darkness,
road lighting can increase the capacity of a motorway. In built-up and residential
areas, road lighting should also provide visual information for slow-moving traffic
such as pedestrians, cyclists and moped users so that they can find their path without
the risk of colliding with or stumbling over potentially dangerous hazards. In these
areas road lighting should also be aimed at discouraging violence, vandalism and
crime. Indeed, crime statistics indicate that there exists a relation between road
lighting and crime reduction. Good road lighting can also contribute to the feeling
of security of residents. This is important in preventing social isolation, especially
of the elderly and young women. Finally, well-designed road lighting can contribute
to the attractiveness of an area.
The safety and comfort of a road user deteriorate considerably with the onset of
darkness, particularly on those roads not provided with a well-designed and main-
tained lighting installation. Driving involves a continuous decision-making process
based on information that reaches our senses. More than 80 % of this input is visual
information. Good lighting is essential in keeping our visual performance at a high
enough level during the hours of darkness. By visual performance is meant the ability
of a motorist to continuously select and process, more or less subconsciously, that
part of the visual information presented to him that is necessary for the safe control
of his vehicle. For a high level of visual performance to be maintained, especially
when driving for a long time, the road user must also feel comfortable in the visual
environment. This also helps to keep the level of fatigue low. Road lighting during
the hours of darkness can enhance visual comfort. Many night-time accidents in-
volve drivers that were sleepy or even asleep prior to the accident. Lighting may also
contribute in keeping drivers alert because of its neurological influence.
The basic purpose of lighting for motorised traffic is thus to enhance the motorist's:
•
visual performance
•
visual comfort
•
alertness
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