Evaluation of GPS device properties for a possible use in future household travel surveys

This paper describes a series of tests undertaken to determine the potential usefulness of a specific passive, portable GPS device for use in household travel surveys. The tests were undertaken to provide a more complete understanding of the properties of the GPS device and to assess its suitability for replacing more conventional self-report diaries in a household travel survey. The tests were conducted first to ascertain the actual battery life of the devices, and then to test out the sensitivity and accuracy of the devices under a number of different conditions. This included tests by train, bus, and ferry in the Sydney area, and also by car and bicycle. The devices were also tested in various positions on the respondent’s body and were also tested in urban canyon and tunnel situations. Two versions of the GPS-PPAL were tested, as a result of an updated version that became available during the testing work. The results show that the GPSPPAL, especially in the latest modification, is well able to record travel very accurately in almost any situation

Impact of waiting times on pedestrians' and car drivers' behaviour at signalised intersections

French road sign regulation decrees that the waiting time at traffic lights must not exceed 120 seconds for car drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. Cities, which usually use traffic lights, have questioned this rule because they cannot comply with this requirement, especially on tramway crossings. The transport ministry has therefore opened discussions about modifying this rule and financed research work to assess the impact of waiting times on users' behaviour and safety. This paper presents the key facts and main results of this study."br" The behaviour of 44,000 drivers was observed in five cities. The rate of running red lights clearly depends on the length of waiting times. The 120 seconds maximum could be extended for drivers on tramway crossings."br" 8,000 pedestrians were also observed. Even if the waiting time is short, 64% of the pedestrians do not respect the red light. If it is long (between 90 and 300 seconds), it rises to 80%. An acceptability and credibility threshold exists and is less than 90 seconds. The research suggests waiting time limits should not be extended for pedestrians