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Adelaide University / Centre For Automotive Safety Research / Publications / List / Details Publication Details| Title | Three-dimensional perceptual markings for traffic calming | | Authors | Mongiardini M, Stokes CS | | Year | 2026 | | Type | Report | | Abstract | This project investigated the effectiveness of a perceptual three-dimensional (3D) pavement marking as a traffic calming treatment for low-speed zones. A 3D adaptation of dragon teeth markings was trialled at transitions to 40km/h zones across four sites in the Adelaide metro area. A controlled before-after evaluation was conducted comparing vehicle free-flow speeds on the treated approach and through the low-speed zones against speeds on the opposite untreated travel direction. Vehicle acceleration and lane positioning were also monitored to identify potential adverse driver behaviours. .
Marginal mean speed variations between -3.3 km/h and +1.9 km/h were observed, likely influenced by high initial speed compliance at the trial sites. A generally moderate decrease in speeding rates also confirmed a subtle but positive calming effect, which remained consistent during nighttime conditions. Critically, no side effects were observed such as abrupt driver overreactions or interference with camera-based vehicle safety systems as Lane Keep Assist and Autonomous Emergency Braking.
While this novel marking design provided only marginal speed reduction, it can be adopted as a safe and cost-effective secondary treatment for reinforcing low-speed zones. A targeted application is suggested to maintain its effectiveness and prevent driver desensitisation. Further research is recommended to evaluate the marking design impact at locations with poor initial speed compliance as well as quantify its role in enhancing driver attention and awareness. | | Report Number | CASR258 | | Publisher | Centre for Automotive Safety Research | | Publisher City | Adelaide | | Sponsor | Research funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts (Grant Funding NRSAGP-VRU1-03) | | ISBN | 978-1-925971-91-0 | | ISSN | 1449-2237 | | Page Count | 67 |
| Reference | | Mongiardini M, Stokes CS (2026). Three-dimensional perceptual markings for traffic calming (CASR258). Adelaide: Centre for Automotive Safety Research. |
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