Crest Vertical Curves. The major design consideration for crest vertical curves is
the provision of ample stopping sight distance for the design speed. Calculations of
available stopping sight distance are based on the driver’s eye 3.5 ft (1.07 m) above
the roadway surface with the ability to see an object 2 ft (0.61 m) high on the roadway
ahead over the top of the pavement. Table 2.18 lists the calculated design stopping
sight distance values and the corresponding K values for design speeds from 20 to 70 mi/h
(32 to 113 km/h). The values shown are based on the assumption that the curve is longer
than the sight distance. In those cases where the sight distance exceeds the vertical
curve length, a different equation is used to calculate the stopping sight distance provided.
The equations are shown in the table.
Another consideration in designing crest vertical curves is passing sight distance,
especially when dealing with two-lane roadways. This has already been discussed