When a two-way arterial street is converted to a one-way arterial street, which of the following is LEAST likely to occur?

• A. Reduced vehicle-miles of travel
• B. Increased travel speeds
• C. Reduced left-turn crashes at intersections
• D. Increased lane-change crashes

Answer: (A)

When a two-way arterial street is converted to a one-way arterial street, several changes can be anticipated in the traffic patterns and safety dynamics of the roadway. The option indicating reduced vehicle-miles of travel is least likely to occur because, in general, converting a street to one-way can lead to an increase in vehicle-miles traveled rather than a reduction. This is primarily because drivers may need to take longer routes to reach their destinations since left turns (which are often restricted or complicated on one-way streets) are no longer permitted, thus making direct routes less feasible.

The transition to a one-way system can lead to increased travel speeds and efficiency, as drivers are able to navigate without the interruptions and conflicts that occur with opposing traffic. Furthermore, one-way streets can result in a decrease in left-turn crashes at intersections since those movements are no longer necessary. However, this simplification can sometimes lead to an increase in lane-change crashes, especially as drivers adjust to the new traffic flow and may become more aggressive in their maneuvers to reach exits or alternate routes. These changes emphasize the unique implications that transforming a two-way arterial to a one-way system can have on traffic dynamics and safety overall.