A traffic count records selected vehicle, pedestrian, cyclist, or other movements at a location during specified periods.
Definition
A traffic count is a record of road user movements at selected locations and times. Depending on the scope, it may capture vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, vehicle classifications, or turning movements. Counts can be collected manually or with equipment, and conditions during collection affect what the data represent. Firms and clients may specify different locations, durations, time periods, classifications, and formats, so those details matter when comparing scopes or using results. A traffic count is a snapshot for the selected periods, not a complete description of all travel patterns or a forecast by itself. It is also not necessarily a turning movement count, which focuses on how traffic moves through an intersection. Analysts document methods and limitations when using counts as inputs to operational or planning studies. The ASCE resource offers general professional context for transportation work.
How owners use it
- Specify count locations, periods, modes, classifications, and output format in the field scope.
- Check whether collection dates and conditions fit the intended analysis and client requirements.
- Coordinate count data needs with the planned intersection or transportation analysis.
- Example: A 12-hour count records 900 vehicles in one direction and 750 in the other, for 900 + 750 = 1,650 vehicles counted.
