Are Radar Speed Signs Right for Your Neighborhood?

• Nov 12, 2011
• Filed in Traffic Calming Articles 
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Radar speed signs that show drivers the speed at which they're traveling do slow traffic down. Of course, every single driver might not slow--there will always be those who are reckless and drive carelessly no matter what we do. But the majority of drivers--speeders and non-speeders alike--reduce their speed when they see a radar speed display sign. This makes the road safer, especially for pedestrians.

Whether you're part of law enforcement, city planning or an HOA that's considering whether or not speed display signs are right for your community, there are some things you should keep in mind while making the decision.

Placement and Power Sources

Where you'll put the signs is as important as whether or not you get them at all. Choosing the places that need traffic slowing the most will help you get the biggest benefits from your signs. School zones and other slow zones are ideal places, as are any places where the traffic speed is reduced, whether that's coming from 55 mph to 40, or 40 to 30. This will help more cars fall within the new speed as they reach the zone than would probably do it without the instant speed feedback they get from these signs.

The power source refers to whether the sign will be hooked into the electric grid, whether it will be solar-powered or whether it will be battery-powered. There are many benefits of choosing solar and battery models. First, because they're potentially movable and can be placed anywhere, they can serve as a testing model for traffic speeds. Radar speed display signs don't just help drivers; they can collect important data on speeds, times of day and other factors that can actually help you determine the best placement for signs if you're unsure.

Movable signs can also be placed in different areas on different days, for things like holidays, special occasions and other potentially higher-traffic times. There's also much less installation hassle with these signs, because they don't have to be wired into the electrical system. That might be impossible in some areas that need traffic calming, which makes portable signs a great option.

Federal and Local Guidelines

There are guidelines that govern the size, colors, placement and design of traffic signs across the country. It's important to choose a sign company that builds their radar signs with these requirements in mind. If you choose speed display signs from Trafficalm, for instance, you know that your signs will meet the necessary requirements. Another company may not have the same standards.

Keeping Costs Under Control

The cost of installing a sign can be high, unless you purchase signs that are designed for easy installation like Trafficalm Drive Brite™ signs. The easier installation means less time and less money spent. The cost of running the signs is also a consideration, but programmable signs can be turned off when not in use, or they can be set on energy-saving modes. Solar and battery signs also keep them off the electric system and lower the cost of using them. You may also be able to get funding for the signs through things like government grants, to help offset the purchase price.

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