Timothy Gates, professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Michigan State, leads a team working to improve road infrastructure that gets drivers to notice hazardous conditions. Recently, the team published papers on two studies designed to save lives: a dynamic bridge deck weather warning system and a new design for highway rumble strips.
The bridge deck warning system uses weather sensors and activated warning lights to alert drivers when icy conditions are detected. The rumble strip study assessed the impact of a new sine wave design on roadside noise levels, driver alert effectiveness and cyclist experience.
Both studies help inform state, local and federal agencies on ways to help reduce traffic crashes and resulting in injuries and fatalities.