Safety Analysis of Merging Vehicles Based on the Speed Difference between on-Ramp and Following Mainstream Vehicles Using NGSIM Data

Highway merging points are critical elements due to the interactions between vehicles and following on outermost lane of highway stream. Such could have significant implications for safety capacity at ramp locations. The aim this study was investigate spacing adjustment behavior by interacting drivers In regard, we relied NGSIM trajectory dataset impacts speed difference a space headway, considering different geometric designs vehicle classes. Nonlinear regression models were estimated analyze interactions. results showed exponential tendency headway reduction, particularly when in higher than 30 km/h. addition, findings revealed that with an auxiliary performed better terms reduction. Furthermore, reduction trend truck rather car. Policymakers practitioners aiming improve road locations use study’s findings. resulting parameters can also be utilized microsimulation models, e.g., car-following models.