Using Real-Time Data from Road Weather Information Systems (RWISs) to Affect Driver Behavior During Inclement Weather – Part I

Fay, Laura; Villwock-Witte, Natalie · 2017 · ROSA P / New Mexico. Department of Transportation

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Summary

This report addresses the high frequency of vehicle crashes on Interstate 40 in New Mexico near the "Top of the World," where drivers frequently fail to reduce speed during inclement weather. The primary objective was to determine the feasibility of integrating existing Road Weather Information System (RWIS) data with a Variable Speed Limit (VSL) system to influence driver behavior and improve safety. The study was motivated by crash report data identifying excessive speed as a major contributing factor to accidents in this specific corridor. The researchers employed a qualitative methodology consisting of a comprehensive literature review, interviews with personnel from various state Departments of Transportation (including Arizona, Idaho, Kansas, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, Washington, and Wyoming), and a survey of New Mexico DOT staff. The literature review focused on rural VSL applications, infrastructure requirements, and operational strategies. The interviews and surveys aimed to identify lessons learned, implementation challenges, and stakeholder considerations from agencies that have deployed similar Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). The findings identified VSL systems as a cost-effective technology capable of reducing speeds and crash rates in high-risk corridors. The report synthesizes best practices regarding infrastructure needs, such as the requirement for changeable speed limit signs, weather sensors, communication equipment, and traffic speed sensors. It highlights that rural VSL systems typically monitor visibility, weather, and pavement conditions, whereas urban systems focus on incidents and speeds. The study notes that regulatory (enforceable) VSLs generally yield higher compliance than advisory systems, though advisory systems may be necessary where statutory changes are difficult. Key operational insights include the importance of using multiple RWIS stations for accurate data resolution, the effectiveness of self-learning control strategies over manual protocols, and the critical role of law enforcement support and public education in system success. The report also identifies potential technical challenges, such as communication issues and software incompatibilities, observed in other states. The significance of this work lies in its provision of a foundational framework for the New Mexico DOT to implement a VSL system on a rural interstate. The researchers recommend proceeding to Phase II of the project, which involves analyzing crash data to define application bounds, assessing RWIS data usability, and engaging stakeholders including law enforcement and maintenance crews. The report emphasizes the need for robust communication infrastructure, such as fiber optic cables, and the potential for the system to serve as a model for other ITS applications in New Mexico, such as managing dust storms. Ultimately, the study concludes that a properly implemented VSL system, supported by clear operational plans and stakeholder engagement, can significantly enhance safety by aligning driver speeds with real-time road conditions.

Key finding

Variable Speed Limit systems utilizing Road Weather Information System data are identified as a cost-effective technology that can improve safety, reduce speeds, and lower crash rates in high-risk rural corridors.

Methodology

mixed_methods

Provenance

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Summary generated by qwen3.6-27b-prismaquant on 2026-06-10; verification: verified.

Topics

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• perceptual countermeasures