What defines 'roadway features' in traffic crash investigations?

'Roadway features' in traffic crash investigations encompass various elements of the road environment that can significantly affect vehicle operation and driver behavior. These features include road conditions—such as the surface material and any debris present—signage that provides critical information to drivers, and markings that indicate lanes, turns, or other instructions.

Understanding these roadway features is crucial because they can directly impact the likelihood of a crash occurring and can influence the severity of the crash if it does happen. For instance, poor road conditions like potholes or ice can lead to loss of control, while inadequate signage might result in confusion or misinterpretation of the road's rules.

The other options, while relevant in the context of a traffic crash, do not specifically encapsulate the definition of 'roadway features.' Weather conditions and vehicle types primarily influence crash outcomes but are not considered roadway features. The type of vehicles involved relates more to the crash dynamics than to the roadway itself, and geographical landmarks, although they can provide context, do not directly pertain to the conditions of the roadway that are important for understanding driver behavior and traffic safety.