ACTAR Roadway Analysis 5

Question 1

What is the primary function of a 'rumble strip' placed on a roadway shoulder?

Accepted Answer

To alert drowsy or inattentive drivers that they are leaving the travel lane

Answer

Shoulder rumble strips create audible and tactile warnings to alert drivers who drift off the travel lane before a run-off-road crash occurs.

Question 2

In forensic roadway analysis, what is the purpose of measuring 'cross-slope' or 'transverse slope' at a crash location?

Accepted Answer

To calculate how pavement slope affects vehicle stability and speed calculations

Answer

Cross-slope affects the lateral forces on a vehicle and must be accounted for in friction and speed calculations, especially on curves or icy roads.

Question 3

Which document is the primary federal reference for pavement marking colors, patterns, and placement in the United States?

Accepted Answer

Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD)

Answer

The MUTCD, published by FHWA, is the national standard governing all traffic control devices including pavement markings on public roads.

Question 4

A roadway is described as having a '3% grade.' What does this mean?

Accepted Answer

The road rises 3 feet for every 100 feet of horizontal distance

Answer

A 3% grade means the elevation changes 3 feet vertically for every 100 feet of horizontal (plan) distance.

Question 5

When reconstructing a crash at an intersection, what is the most important role of the 'functional area' concept?

Accepted Answer

It identifies the zone where drivers are responding to the intersection and where conflicts are most likely

Answer

The functional area of an intersection is the upstream zone where drivers perceive, decide, and react to traffic control, making it critical for analyzing perception-reaction conflicts.

(ACTAR) Accreditation Commission for Traffic Accident Reconstructionist Practice Test

(ACTAR) Accreditation Commission for Traffic Accident Reconstructionist Practice Test

ACTAR Roadway Analysis 5