Improving Traffic Safety through Quantification of Road Network Hydroplaning Risks

Principal Investigator(s):

Imad Al-Qadi, Bliss Professor of Engineering – The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Director – Illinois Center for Transportation
Director – Advanced Transportation Research and Engineering Laboratory
Director– Smart Transportation Infrastructure Initiative
Yanfeng Ouyang, George Krambles Endowed Professor in Rail and Public Transit – The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Paul F. Kent Endowed Faculty Scholar – The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Donald Biggar Willett Faculty Scholar – The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Director – Chinese-American Railway Transportation Joint Research Center
Associate Director for Mobility – Illinois Center for Transportation

Project Abstract:
The main objective of this study is to develop a computational framework to quantify tire-water-pavement interactions under wet surface conditions, assess their impacts on pavement friction, and suggest incorporating those impacts into an integrated asset management framework for pavement treatment prioritization and scheduling.

This new research effort would enable roadway agencies to improve roadway safety by optimizing roadway friction as part of an integrated asset management plan. It will serve as a valuable tool for roadway agencies, providing them with insights to implement strategies to reduce traffic crashes, congestion, as well as pavement deterioration.

The study will support CCAT’s efforts to create safe and durable transportation systems.

Institution(s): University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Award Year: 2025

Research Focus: Safety, Mobility

Project Form(s):