Road Deterioration Modeling in PMSs: sensitivity and global applicability

The present paper raises the issue of selecting a Pavement Management System (PMS) for implementation, focusing on the Road Deterioration models. Under a performance investigation, aspects of the cracking models of the HDM-4 and RIMS PMSs, as well as the cracking model of the European project PARIS, are outlined, followed by comparative sensitivity and preliminary validation analyses. The results highlight the issue of applicability and the need for harmonization of the PMSs and their models. In addition, the paper elaborates upon the impact road deterioration has on road safety, discussing as well practical applications of road safety effectiveness criteria in Pavement Management practice.