Pumas make roads safer for drivers
A study found that pumas change deer behavior, reducing the likelihood of deer-vehicle collisions by 67%. Deer alter their use of space and time where pumas are present, overlapping less with roads.
Roads
Articles tagged with Roads
PaveX receives NSF funding to help agencies plan road repairs sooner, more efficiently
PaveX will develop an AI-sensor-based system to collect street-level data and produce practical road condition ratings, helping agencies plan repairs sooner and more efficiently. The project aims to improve distress detection reliability and reduce route planning overhead.
Carnegie Mellon study finds that rideshare launches boost regional GDP and flexible jobs
A new study from Carnegie Mellon University and Oxford Saïd Business School found that the entry of ride-hailing platforms drove measurable increases in economic output and intermittent employment. Regional GDP per capita increased, and the number of seasonal, temporary, or intermittent jobs rose after Uber and Lyft entered the region.
Road traffic noise, noise difference between residential facades, and risk of Parkinson disease
Long-term exposure to road traffic noise was associated with a higher risk of Parkinson's disease, according to the study. Having a quiet facade mitigated this association, suggesting that reducing noise levels may be a viable strategy for preventing or managing the condition.
FAU study uncovers why pedestrian deaths continue to rise in the US
A new study by Florida Atlantic University researchers highlights the role of urban planning in increasing pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities in the US. The study reveals that everyday destinations like grocery stores and pharmacies along busy roads significantly increase risk of serious injury or death.
SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of the American Planning Association·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 27, 2026
Transportation noise: An overlooked risk to heart health
Research suggests living in areas with high levels of transportation noise is associated with a significantly higher risk of major adverse cardiac events. Loud road, aviation, and rail noises were linked to increased risks of heart attack, stroke, or coronary revascularization. Different types of noise may come with unique health risks...
Glacial lakes are growing rapidly in Alaska, and research shows where growth will continue
Research shows glacial lakes in Alaska expanding 50% faster than previously recorded, posing significant hazards and altering ecosystems. The study identifies areas where lakes may form and grow, helping with infrastructure planning and predicting changes to ecosystems, hazards, and recreation.
SourceColorado State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 10, 2026
Road salt creates more harm to freshwater life than expected, study finds
Research by University of Missouri scientists found that road salt is deadly to freshwater snails when paired with the presence of predators, causing nearly 60% higher mortality rates. The study suggests practical solutions to reduce salt pollution in waterways, such as cutting road salt use by up to 50%.
I’m walking here! A new model maps foot traffic in New York City
A new model maps foot traffic in New York City, providing insights into pedestrian activity and hazard locations. The study reveals high densities of foot traffic outside Manhattan, with many streets having similar foot-traffic levels to Manhattan's busiest areas.
Want to ride your bicycle? SFU study highlights rise of Canada’s bike network
A Simon Fraser University study reveals Canada's cycling infrastructure expanded by 3,596 km between 2022 and 2024. However, areas with more children and older adults saw less growth in cycling infrastructure, highlighting the need for more inclusive transportation planning.
How talking slows eye movements behind the wheel
A new study reveals that everyday conversations can delay essential eye-movement responses, affecting the fast visual assessments required for safe driving. The research found that talking imposes cognitive load strong enough to interfere with the neural processes that initiate and guide eye movements.
Forecasting the impact of fully automated vehicle adoption on US road traffic injuries
A simulation study forecasted potential injury reductions in the US with AV adoption, suggesting a possible decrease in road traffic injuries. However, predicted confidence intervals remain broad, and no scenario reduced injuries outside of these bounds.
Can AI read humans’ minds? A new model shows it’s shockingly good at it
A breakthrough AI system called OmniPredict can predict human pedestrian behaviors with unprecedented accuracy, revolutionizing self-driving cars and urban mobility. The model combines visual cues with contextual information to anticipate pedestrians' next moves, reducing the risk of accidents and improving traffic safety.
30kph residential speed limit improves safety with little effect on travel times
Lowering residential speed limits to 30kph significantly boosts bicycle riding safety without affecting car trip times, according to a study. The reduction in traffic stress leads to more people choosing bikes as a safe mode of transport.
SourceRMIT University·JournalJournal of Cycling and Micromobility Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 15, 2025
AI tech from startup PaveX improves consistency, speed and cost of road condition assessments
The startup has assessed over 3,400 miles of Indiana roads using advanced computer vision algorithms to quickly and objectively assess pavement conditions. This platform provides actionable insights without requiring in-house data analysis expertise or costly hardware.
PSU research shows Portland transit-oriented developments reduce car trips, especially at affordable housing sites
A new study by Portland State University's Transportation Research and Education Center (TREC) reveals that transit-oriented developments (TODs) in the Portland metro area generate significantly fewer car trips than previously estimated. At affordable housing sites, car trips were reduced to only a quarter to two-fifths of expected rates.
Rice sociologist’s journey from simple curiosity to NSF-backed research reveals how physical infrastructure shapes inequality
Elizabeth Roberto's research uses satellite imagery, historical archives, and AI to map how infrastructure decisions reinforce racial and economic divides. Her study spans 50 US cities and introduces new ways to measure spatial features of neighborhoods affecting access to schools and public resources.
Rented e-bicycles more dangerous than e-scooters in cities
A recent study published in the Journal of Safety Research found that rented e-bikes have an eight times higher crash risk than rented e-scooters, calculated based on trip distance. The researchers used GPS data to compare micromobility in seven European cities and found a surprising result.
SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalJournal of Safety Research·TypeObservational study·DateSep 12, 2025
Turning shopping bags into streets: ECU research tackles plastic waste
Researchers from Edith Cowan University have developed a method to incorporate waste plastics into pavement material, offering a dual benefit of improving road strength and reducing plastic pollution. The study highlights the potential for repurposing household plastics to create more sustainable and resilient roads.
Teens report spending 21% of each driving trip looking at their phone
A new study found that teen drivers spend an average of 21.1% of each trip viewing their mobile behind the wheel, with entertainment being the most common distraction. The study also revealed that many young drivers believe they can withstand the pressure to drive distracted and perceive a social norm of the behavior.
Roadblock for traffic injury compensation for Aboriginal people
New research reveals complex challenges Aboriginal people face when seeking support after a road traffic injury, including lack of awareness and culturally insensitive systems. The study calls for a national overhaul of compensation and return-to-work programs centered on Indigenous knowledge and cultural determinants of health.
Aston University researchers to take the first steps to find out if AI can help policymakers make urban mobility more sustainable
Aston University researchers are investigating the use of AI in creating greener cities, exploring policy tools to reduce emissions and optimize transportation. The project aims to develop decision-support tools for policymakers to improve urban infrastructure management and reduce environmental hazards.
UCF’s ‘bridge doctor’ combines imaging, neural network to efficiently evaluate concrete bridges’ safety
Researchers at UCF used a combination of emerging technologies to evaluate the safety of concrete bridges. By combining infrared thermography, high-definition imaging and neural network analysis, they can quickly identify defects and prioritize repairs.
SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateMay 16, 2025
New research from Incheon National University reveals the key to road safety
A study by researchers at Incheon National University found that pedestrian and roadside facilities have a substantial direct effect on crash outcomes, particularly for run-off crashes. The team suggests prioritizing these modifiable operational features in road safety strategies to improve safety.
SourceIncheon National University·JournalJournal of Safety Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 12, 2025
Being hit by an SUV increases the likelihood of death or serious injury, new research shows
A new analysis of existing studies found that pedestrians and cyclists hit by SUVs or light trucks are more likely to suffer fatal injuries. The likelihood is higher among children, with a child hit by an SUV/LTV being 82% more likely to be killed than a child hit by a passenger car.
SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalInjury Prevention·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 29, 2025
Unsafe driving during school drop offs at ‘unacceptable’ levels
A study of over 500 schools in Canada found that 98% exhibit risky driving behaviors, including double parking and not obeying traffic controls. The authors suggest improvements to the built environment and parental education to address this serious issue.
Unsafe driving during school drop offs at ‘unacceptable’ levels
Risky driving by parents and motorists during school drop-offs is a widespread issue, with 98% of elementary schools witnessing unsafe behavior. Experts suggest improvements to the built environment around schools to address this serious concern.
Finding their way: GPS ignites independence in older adult drivers
A UK study found that GPS navigation assistance is associated with increased driving mobility in older adults, particularly those with poor spatial abilities. The study suggests that integrating navigational assistance into strategies can help maintain driving independence.
How GPS helps older drivers stay on the roads
A new study published in PLOS Digital Health found that older drivers with GPS navigation systems tend to drive more frequently, suggesting these tools help maintain driving mobility. The research reveals that using GPS can alleviate spatial orientation difficulties and support older adults' independence on the roads.
UTA inventors recognized worldwide for innovations
The University of Texas at Arlington has contributed 23 patents to UT System's total of 234, increasing by 15% over 2023. This recognition showcases the university's role in translating research into daily innovations.
Researchers using lidar and AI to advance transportation engineering and safety
University of Missouri researchers developed a method using lidar and AI to analyze pedestrian, cyclist, and vehicle interactions at traffic signals. The approach aims to enhance driver awareness, reduce accidents, and improve mobility.
Electric scooter schemes reduce bicycle collisions by 20%, study suggests
A University of Bristol-led study suggests electric scooter schemes reduce bicycle collisions by around 20% in the UK. The research found that even after COVID-19 restrictions lifted, e-scooter scheme areas saw a significant decrease in serious and fatal bicycle collisions.
Using existing infrastructure to estimate pedestrian volumes
Researchers at PSU used ODOT's push-button data to estimate pedestrian counts, develop a workflow for integrating traffic counts into the enterprise system, and explore applications in pedestrian infrastructure planning. The new dashboard allows agencies to analyze usage patterns and prioritize upgrades at high-demand locations.
Receiving low-glucose alerts improves diabetic drivers’ safety on the road
A Japanese study found that CGM devices with low-glucose alerts reduced hypoglycemic incidents and increased confidence among diabetic drivers. The findings suggest that such systems can make driving safer for people with diabetes.
What’s on the horizon for Australia’s road safety?
A new study forecasts Australia's road traffic fatalities to rise to 998 by 2030 and 715 by 2050, with older drivers and male motorcyclists at the greatest risk
Researchers are driving the charge of zero emissions
A study by Virginia Tech researchers found that electric vehicles generally produce less non-exhaust emissions than gasoline-powered vehicles when driving in city conditions. The research also highlights the environmental benefits of regenerative braking, which reduces brake abrasion emissions.
Alternative to studded winter tires reduces airborne particles by 20 percent
Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology found that cobalt-free studded tires can grip ice and packed snow without causing significant damage to road surfaces. The alternative stud material reduces airborne particles by 20 percent, a potential improvement for driver health.
SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalTribology International·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 6, 2025
Paved with good inventions: Road management needs new technologies, simpler regulations and improved collaboration
Two EU-funded projects presented digital, robotic, and other technologies for improved road monitoring and maintenance, emphasizing the need for automation, data-driven solutions, and sustainability. High-level participants highlighted the importance of collaboration and regulation in paving the way for smarter infrastructure management.
New research shows a scientific approach can optimize bike lane planning
A new study by University of Toronto researchers has developed a model that can help municipalities choose optimal locations for bike lanes, minimizing congestion and increasing cycling ridership. The model uses traffic and commuter mobility data to predict the impact of bike lane expansion on driving travel time and emissions.
SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalManagement Science·TypeObservational study·DateJan 27, 2025
Battery-powered electric vehicles now match petrol and diesel counterparts for longevity
A new study finds that battery-powered electric vehicles (BEVs) have improved significantly in reliability over the years, matching the lifespans of traditional cars and vans with internal combustion engines. BEVs now have an average lifespan of 18.4 years and can travel up to 124,000 miles.
Researcher studies the power of native plants to combat road salt pollution
A study published in Science of the Total Environment found that stormwater detention basins in Northern Virginia face significant salt stress due to road salts. Native plant species, such as cattails, showed promise in tolerating high salt concentrations, but their impact on overall salt removal was limited.
Traffic jams? Let's learn from ants
A team of researchers from UniTrento examined how ants manage traffic congestion using pheromone trails and observed individual ant movements. Their findings could provide a model for optimizing autonomous vehicle traffic flow, reducing congestion and emissions.
SourceUniversità di Trento·JournalTransportation Research Interdisciplinary Perspectives·TypeObservational study·DateJan 13, 2025
UC3M investigates how to improve seat belts with a gender perspective
Researchers at UC3M are conducting a pioneering study on how morphological differences between men and women affect road safety systems, specifically seat belts. The study aims to improve protection for vehicle occupants regardless of gender, as anatomical and behavioural differences may lead to increased risk of injury.
More dense, populated neighborhoods inspire people to walk more
A national study found that walkable neighborhoods increase walking by 23% due to factors like density of people, roads, and amenities. Living in a walkable area also reduces the chance of no transit use, while vigorous exercise is not necessarily linked to neighborhood walkability.
Distractions significantly delay remote drivers’ reaction time
Research shows that remote drivers' reaction time is significantly slowed by distractions and disengagement, increasing response latency and impairing decision-making. This poses serious safety concerns for Level 4 automated vehicles, which rely on remote drivers to make critical decisions.
SourceNewcastle University·JournalElectronics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 21, 2024
Transportation institute awarded nearly $1 million in trucking education grants
The Virginia Tech Transportation Institute received nearly $1 million in grants to develop and enhance tractor-trailer educational programs. The programs focus on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and safer driving outreach, aiming to save lives by educating drivers on the benefits of these technologies.
CityUHK researchers develop next-generation radiative cooling technology
Next-generation passive radiative cooling technology offers an electricity- and refrigerant-free cooling solution, potentially reducing surface temperature by at least 2°C. The innovation has promising application potential in buildings, roads, and clothing, addressing issues such as urban heat islands and greenhouse gas emissions.
Severity of road accidents and the injuries sustained vary according to sex of the driver and passengers
A new study published in Heliyon analyzed the characteristics of drivers and passengers involved in traffic accidents in Spain between 2014 and 2020. The results show that the risk of death or serious injury among passengers is lower when the driver is female, but higher for female occupants. This could be attributed to biological and ...
Wildland firefighters hit their STRIDE
Researchers from University of Utah introduced Simulating Travel Rates in Diverse Environments (STRIDE) model to predict walking travel times with unprecedented accuracy. The model considers slope steepness, vegetation density, and ground surface roughness for efficient routes.
Men behind the wheel: Three times more violations and accidents than women
Researchers analyzed 160,000 court decisions in Russia, finding men 3.25 times more likely to be involved in accidents that lead to criminal cases. Men drive faster, more aggressively, and are more likely to drive under the influence, contributing to a significant gap in road safety.
SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalSociology of power·TypeCase study·DateSep 13, 2024
Rice engineers develop AI system for real-time sensing of flooded roads
Rice engineers developed an automated data fusion framework called OpenSafe Fusion to sense quickly evolving road conditions during urban flooding events. The framework leverages existing individual reporting mechanisms and public data sources, predicting whether a road is flooded or not.
Delivery robots’ green credentials make them more attractive to consumers
A Washington State University study reveals that automatic delivery robots with low carbon emissions can encourage consumers to use them when ordering food. Participants who were more environmentally aware and had less perceived risk of late or spoiled food were more likely to choose the robots.
SourceWashington State University·JournalInternational Journal of Hospitality Management·DateAug 13, 2024
Roofing highways with solar panels could cut carbon emissions and improve road safety
Researchers estimate that installing solar panels on highways could generate 17,578 terawatt-hours of electricity per year, equivalent to more than 60% of the world's total energy consumption. This could reduce carbon emissions by up to 28% and improve road safety through shielding cars from inclement weather.
Breastfeeding priorities most important to parents
A collaborative effort between The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine and Reaching our Sisters Everywhere identified key components of a successful breastfeeding journey as defined by parents and families. The findings aim to inform research priorities and promote patient-centered outcomes in infant and young-child feeding.
SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJul 17, 2024
Trust, more than knowledge, critical for acceptance of fully autonomous vehicles
A recent study by Washington State University researchers found that trust in autonomous vehicles' reliability and performance plays a crucial role in improving perceptions of the technology's risk. Knowledge alone is insufficient to sway people's attitudes toward complex technology like autonomous vehicles.
Luther identifying road segments that bisect predicted movement corridors for small priority species in Virginia
A study at George Mason University aims to advance the Wildlife Corridor Action Plan by identifying road segments impeding movement of priority species in Virginia. The researchers created models estimating habitat suitability and important movement areas for select species, receiving $243,105 in funding.
Self-driving technology: improving safety through sound
A new partnership has developed a functional safety sensing platform based on 3D ultrasound, providing an additional layer of safety and reliability for autonomous vehicles. The technology complements existing systems and enables vehicles to detect their surroundings in real-time, even in extreme conditions.
Wealthy Kiwis driving up transport emissions, study finds
A study found that people in affluent areas in New Zealand were contributing more than their fair share of greenhouse gas emissions from transport. They drove further and owned more cars, leading to higher emissions per week.
Diagnosing damaged infrastructure from space
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a method of monitoring infrastructure using Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) remote sensing systems. This technology allows for early detection of issues, reducing the need for time-consuming repairs.
SourceTexas A&M University·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateJun 6, 2024
Investigating the dynamic creep and the tensile performance of zeolitic tuff-modified warm asphalt mixtures
This study investigates the impact of Zeolitic tuffs on the dynamic creep and tensile performance of Superpave asphalt mixtures. The results show that incorporating Zeolitic tuffs improves the mixtures' resistance to rutting and fatigue, with enhanced performance at 25% and 50% filler concentrations.