Traffic Effects of the Emergency Lane Use

The use of the hard shoulder/emergency lane (EL) is analysed in the current research, with case study the first experimental application of emergency lane use undertaken in Switzerland (Morges - Ecublens). The EL is activated during peak hours and when congestion or deceleration occurs. In normal operating process, the traffic is analysed and an opening alarm system is turning on when certain criteria are reached. This project focalises on the dynamic use of the EL, examines the effects of this use on traffic and proposes a strategy for the traffic optimisation. The research aims at defining to the following: a) optimal decisive parameters and threshold for the activation of the EL (flow, speed, occupancy, density, etc.), b) minimum duration of using the EL as additional traffic lane and conditions to cease its use, c) influence of the “BAU Active” on users’/drivers’ behaviour, their perception on the temporary use of the EL, their acceptance level, d) impact of the “BAU Active” on travel time, safety and vehicles’ emissions and e) strategies of ATM (Active Traffic Management) that should be integrated with the temporary use of the EL for optimal traffic flow.