What is the purpose of traffic impact studies?

Traffic impact studies are conducted primarily to assess the effects of new developments on the surrounding transportation network. When a new development, such as a shopping center, residential area, or industrial complex, is proposed, it's crucial to evaluate how the increase in traffic generated by this development will influence existing roadways, intersections, and overall traffic flow.

This type of study provides valuable data that helps transportation planners and engineers understand potential congestion points and identify necessary improvements or modifications to the transportation infrastructure. It ensures that the anticipated growth in traffic does not adversely affect safety and mobility in the area. By examining variables such as traffic volume, trip generation rates, and the impact on nearby roadways, traffic impact studies serve to inform decision-making processes regarding construction, zoning, and transportation planning.

The other options, while relevant to traffic engineering, do not encapsulate the primary objective of traffic impact studies. Evaluating roundabouts, analyzing historical accidents, and determining speed limits are specific analyses that serve different purposes within the broader scope of traffic operations and management.