ABSTRACT
Traffic signs are an integral part of road environments and failure to obey them has been shown to be a significant contributor to road accidents. This paper aims to summarize the status quo of traffic sign effectiveness research and also to emphasize what should be focused on in the future. First, a traffic sign processing model is proposed based on the Communication-Human Information Processing (C-HIP) model. In this new model, traffic sign information starts with the Recognition stage, flows through the Comprehension and Benefit-Cost Evaluation processes and ends with Behavioral response. A systematic review on the factors that affect the sign recognition and comprehension is given. It has been identified that sign design features (e.g. size), driving contexts (e.g. luminance level), and the driver characteristics (e.g. age) play significant roles. Finally, to enhance sign effectiveness, it is recommended that driver training and advanced in-vehicle technology are promising countermeasures.
