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Technical Paper

Tractor Semitrailer Left Turns and Lane Changes

2010-04-12
2010-01-0049
Data regarding the characteristics of left turns and lane changes performed by articulated tractor semitrailer combination vehicles in urban environments are presented. Previous studies have quantified acceleration rates for tractor semitrailers travelling straight, and for automobiles making left turns, but there is a gap in the literature regarding heavy vehicle acceleration during left turns. Likewise there is a lack of published data regarding the duration of lane changes made by these vehicles at highway speeds. Left turns were studied at a four-way stop-sign controlled intersection with a high volume of heavy vehicle traffic. Markings were made on the roadway corresponding to three left turn paths of varying radii. Intervals leading up to and along the marked paths were measured and painted on the roadway. The motion of each tractor semitrailer that made the subject left turn was recorded by video.
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