Auditorías de seguridad vial en 3 intersecciones a desnivel en la ciudad de Cuenca: Análisis con un enfoque hacia estrategias en Visión Cero

Abstract

This research aims to evaluate the current state of three grade-separated intersections in the city of Cuenca through road safety audits, identifying deficiencies in road infrastructure design, road safety, and operational performance. The methodology employs a qualitative approach, utilizing a checklist at intersections defined by their relevance in terms of traffic flow and frequency of traffic crashes, to determine compliance with Ecuadorian standards for geometric design, traffic signage, and operability. This allows for the identification of shortcomings and improvement actions. This research is based on a detailed data collection of vertical and horizontal traffic signs, pavement condition, roadway width, traffic separation medians, lighting, turning radii, sight distance, and established operating speed. Additionally, parameters from the “Vision Zero” strategy, widely used in road audits and sustainable mobility plans in other cities, are incorporated to compare the results obtained and enhance the analysis of each intersection. A critical issue related to the geometric design is observed at the intersection of ‘12 de Abril’ Avenue and ‘Paucarbamba’ Avenue concerning the vertical clearance, which does not meet the minimum height requirement. Furthermore, the signage exhibits deficiencies due to a lack of maintenance, weather-related deterioration, and a lack of reflectivity. Finally, the pavement and drainage conditions are not optimal.