The Use of Three-Dimensional (3-D) Visualization in the

Road Safety Audit (RSA) Process

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What is an RSA?

• Formal safety performance examination

• Considers the safety of all road users

• Independent multidisciplinary team

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Why an RSA?

Begin with the end in mind…

Reduce the number and severity of motor vehicle crashes.

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The 8-Step RSA Process

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Benefits of Using 3-D Visualization

The 3-D model enables members of the RSA team who are not proficient at reading and interpreting roadway design plans to grasp the proposed improvements and identify potential safety concerns.

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3-D visualization brings a static design to life

Benefits of Using 3-D Visualization

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Benefits of Using 3-D Visualization

The 3-D model can be used to illustrate exactly how the roadway environment will be affected by signs, structures, guardrail, and other key features that are supplemental to the roadway itself.

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Benefits of Using 3-D Visualization

The 3-D model allows users to view the proposed conditions from any number of vantage points, which may reveal issues not otherwise obvious from a review of standard 2-D plans.

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Benefits of Using 3-D Visualization

The 3-D model can be used by the RSA team to provide visual support of its findings and recommendations to the project owners, stakeholders, and others.

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Benefits of Using 3-D Visualization

The 3-D model can help to maximize the effective time of the RSA team members.

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RSA Case Studies

• Available June 2013

• Documents Benefits

• Details of 3-D PDFs

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Becky CroweRSA Program Manager

Federal Highway AdministrationOffice of Safety(804) 775-3381

Rebecca.Crowe@dot.gov