General Problem Identification Procedure

Using the sources of information and the analytical processes described later in this section, TRF-BTS systematically analyzes data to determine whether a proposed project is the best alternative among the available options. Conclusions must:
  • Support the available data.
  • Be site specific, whether that site is a county, city, or roadway section.
TRF-BTS typically follows the procedures below in problem identification and analysis. Explanations of the requirements involved in these steps follow. Typically, TRF-BTS:
  1. Identifies evidence that a traffic safety problem exists.
  2. Collects applicable data in the target jurisdiction.
  3. Analyzes the data to determine what factors or characteristics are overrepresented.
  4. Determines if the problem “is of a magnitude that warrants action?”
    • If yes,
       proceeds to the following steps.
    • If no,
       considers the possibility that the initial indication may have been random.
  5. Investigates all possible corrective actions.
  6. Determines the best course of action.
  7. Initiates corrective action.