Analyzing the Performance of Signalized Intersections Using the Method of the Highway Capacity Manual

Abstract

Intersections are considered one of the most important components of road networks, and contribute directly to reducing travel distances between regions, but high traffic flow rates at intersections cause increased delay times and the possibility of traffic accidents, so traffic is controlled using one of the known means; priority signs - stop signs - traffic lights. This research paper focuses on intersections controlled by traffic lights. Intersections organized by traffic lights are the most widely used to control traffic in cities, and the analysis and design of the traffic light system depends on several factors. The operational performance of intersections is affected by road characteristics, traffic type, and surrounding conditions. The paper aims to analyze the traffic performance of intersections organized by traffic lights according to the analytical method followed by Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) then verify the results by applying them to a number of existing intersections; to provide a file that facilitates the process of analyzing any type of intersections equipped with traffic lights and with traffic lanes that are not completely separated. The method is to study the steps of analyzing intersections equipped with traffic lights approved by the American code HCM, and apply them to Microsoft Excel 2010 using the same equations and on the same worksheets specified in the code. This work results in providing an integrated system ready for direct use to analyze any type of intersections equipped with traffic lights on roads with non-fully separated lanes. It can be said that the program saves time, and makes it easier for the engineer in charge of projects to analyze the intersections he works on, which are similar to the intersections studied in this research, and thus obtain quick and accurate results.