What is Audio-tactile line marking?
Audio-tactile line marking can significantly reduce the likelihood of run-off-road (ROR) crashes, particularly when applied to edge lines.
The treatment typically consists of ‘raised transverse bars of thermoplastic material placed at short intervals’ (Austroads Guide to Road Safety Part 2).
ATLM alerts drivers to partial or imminent lane departure through audio and tactile feedback from the wheels of the vehicle when running on the line, allowing drivers to correct their steering before fully departing the roadway.
This treatment also helps to prevent head-on crashes when applied to centre lines.
Effectiveness
ATLM is a relatively low-cost infrastructure treatment with proven safety benefits for all motorised vehicle types. According to Austroads:
ATLM on shoulders has been shown to reduce all single-vehicle ROR crashes by 15%, and fatal and serious injury ROR crashes by 29%.
ATLM on centrelines was found to reduce all head-on and sideswipe crashes by 30%, and fatal and serious injury crashes of the same type by 44%.
Considerations
While possible to apply at high-risk locations as isolated (spot) treatments, ATLM is best considered as a proactive ‘continuous treatment’ approach for longer highway sections.
The treatment may be most commonly seen on high-speed rural and regional roads, as well as urban motorways and highways.
Sealed shoulders are required for ATLM installations.
Installation in urban areas should consider the potential impacts on nearby residents of noise generated by the treatment.
ATLM may also be used in combination with various barrier systems
Please refer to the previous issue #4 for additional crash statistics for all Councils in Victoria.