Evaluation of Driver Visibility of Traffic Signs and Road Markings at Night to Improve Traffic Safety on the Northern Ring Road of Tegal City
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.38035/jstl.v4i3.1260Keywords:
Nighttime Visibility, Traffic Signs, Road Markings, Road Safety, RetroreflectivityAbstract
Nighttime visibility of traffic signs and road markings is important because drivers rely on visual information to understand road conditions, maintain lane position, and anticipate hazards. This study evaluates the perceived visibility and observed condition of signs and markings on the Northern Ring Road of Tegal City, Indonesia, identifies factors associated with poor visibility, and proposes technical improvements. A descriptive quantitative and evaluative approach was used, combining a questionnaire with direct field observation. Of 101 submitted responses, 95 respondents agreed to participate and were included in the main analysis. The mean visibility score was 3.00 out of 5 for signs and 2.64 for road markings. Insufficient street lighting was the most frequently reported sign-visibility issue (74 selections), while faded markings were the most frequently reported marking issue (63 selections). Field observations recorded six sign entries: two had fair visibility and four had poor visibility. The observed lane-divider, road-edge, and pedestrian-crossing markings were faded and difficult to see. Recommended actions include repainting markings, repairing damaged or tilted signs, clearing obstructing vegetation, reviewing lighting, and conducting instrument-based retroreflectivity measurements when equipment is available. The findings identify road markings as a priority for improvement, while acknowledging that the study measured perceived rather than instrument-based visibility
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