PIARC Smart Roads Classification Framework Study PIARC is developing a classification framework for smart roads that accommodates connected and automated vehicles. The study identifies several variables and conditions that must be considered for Smart Roads Classification, including (PIARC, 2021): • Cross-section, lane width, and shoulder width. • Road markings and traffic signs. • Intersections, (e.g., signal recognition). • Pavement condition (e.g., asphalt vs. concrete, distress, old road markings, cracked sealings). • Environmental conditions (e.g., fog, light conditions, sun glare). • Vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists, including unpredictable behaviors. • Road work, which may include erased road markings and orientation of construction signage. Establishing dedicated lanes for automated vehicles (AVs) serves as a potential solution for minimizing the effects of these conditions. An example of a dedicated lane system is shown in Figure 42.
Figure 42. Dedicated smart road lane examples. Source: World Road Association “PIARC” (2021) Smart Roads Classification Webinar
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