Ledetrafikk

Ledetrafikk, or guided traffic, is a traffic management approach where vehicle flow is directed and controlled by authorities to maintain safety and efficiency, especially when normal driving conditions are disrupted. The term is used in Norwegian transport planning and civil engineering contexts and encompasses the coordination of signals, signs, barriers, and personnel to steer traffic along an alternative or restricted path.

In practice, ledetrafikk is common during road construction, maintenance work, accidents, or major events that require lane closures, detours, or temporary one-way sections. Implementation relies on clear temporary signage, portable traffic lights, barriers, and traffic controllers (trafikkvakter) to regulate the flow and prevent conflicts. Modern systems may include digital message signs and coordinated signal timing to manage alternating flows or queue lengths.

The primary goals are to maintain safe conditions for road users and workers, minimize disruption, and optimize overall traffic throughput. Benefits include improved safety around worksites, more predictable traffic patterns, and reduced risk of secondary incidents. Challenges involve ensuring driver compliance, communicating changes effectively, and coordinating multiple agencies, equipment, and schedules.

Ledetrafikk is typically governed by national road traffic regulations and overseen by relevant authorities such as the national road administration, police, and local traffic departments. Related concepts include omkjøring (detour), trafikkontroll (traffic control), and dynamic signal operations. While often temporary, ledetrafikk shares principles with urban congestion management and the wider field of traffic engineering.