Methodology For The Sustainable Geometric Design Of Road Axes In Inter-Cantonal Roads

Abstract

Deficiencies that occur in the geometric design and road environment factors are related to the risk of occurrence of traffic accidents, so ensuring a safer road environment is a constant challenge for road authorities and engineers. To address this problem, a methodology for the sustainable geometric design of road axes is proposed, to reduce the occurrence of unforeseen events and improve road safety. The proposed methodology is based on the analysis of various indicators such as the importance of the road, connectivity, the hazard index, and road safety. The process begins with a visual inspection that allows obtaining data on the use of the land and the characteristics of the roadside areas. Subsequently, a vehicle count is carried out to calculate the Annual Average Daily Traffic and classify the road according to the Ministry of Transport and Public Works. Finally, the user's perception of the geometric design elements is taken into account. Following this procedure, the E584 Pasaje - El Guabo road was evaluated and it was found that the final assessment of the service is inadequate. It is concluded that the indicators used in the evaluation of intercantonal roads serve as a guideline to highlight deficiencies and propose improvements, to increase safety and driver confidence on the road.