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Video knowledge note

Occlusion and Overlap in Video Counts

How blocked road users and overlapping paths affect count reliability.

By SWAT Alliance Editorial Team · Published 25 August 2026

Short answer

Occlusion occurs when one object blocks another from the camera view; its treatment must be planned wherever the study requires individual movements or classes.

Before the project starts

  • Locate likely overlap points at merges, queues and crossings.
  • Check whether a second view is available.
  • Define how ambiguous observations are logged.

Practical approach

Use a movement matrix and source review to separate visible, inferable and unobservable events. Do not convert an unclear overlap into a confident class or destination.

Checks and limitations

Review busy intervals and locations with recurring obstruction, and retain relevant exception notes.

An unobserved event should remain unknown unless the approved evidence resolves it.