Traffic Calming and MUTCD Traffic Sign Options

• Feb 26, 2012
• Filed in Traffic Calming Articles 
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TraffiCalm Systems' driver feedback signs are MUTCD traffic signs, meaning that they meet with the Manual of Uniform Traffic Devices standards set for signs. They follow a standard design that makes them recognizable and useful traffic calming tools. That doesn't mean that you don't have choices within that standard. There are actually several options so the signs can meet the needs of your community.

Colors of MUTCD Traffic Signs

Static speed limit signs are white with black lettering. Anyone who's passed a driver's test should recognize this basic traffic control signage. Driver feedback signs can look the same, with the exception of the bright LED display. But there are options, such as yellow, fluorescent yellow-green and fluorescent orange. All of these colors are those that drivers are used to seeing in signs that limit actions or instruct. Yield signs, construction signs and railroad crossing signs are examples of these common colors that drivers have been trained to notice.

TraffiCalm doesn't use other colors to minimize driver confusion and ensure that the signs are effective. A brown or green sign, for instance, could cause confusion. A speed display housed in a sign that's the color of an exit or historical sign would create a mixed signal for drivers, and would be unlikely to slow traffic. Still, communities can choose from the four common colors so that the feedback signs fit into the area and look as if they belong.

Colors of Speed Feedback

TraffiCalm, an ISO9001 manufacturer, also offers the option of amber or red LED lights that create the speed display. A flashing white strobe is also an option. The colors alone only represent part of the choices, however, when you consider that the sign can be programmed to flash if a driver is going over the speed limit, or run only during certain hours.

New sign options also allow communities to set signs to show "SLOW DOWN" if drivers are exceeding the posted limits. This may be an extra-effective addition for driver feedback signs, especially in areas where traffic calming measures haven't been as effective as expected, or in high-traffic, accident-prone areas.

Technology Options

ITS systems are the future of road safety, with speed display signs already on the forefront of the movement for technology that helps provide protection and safety. Thanks to the wireless Bluetooth connection, signs can be programmed on the fly, and data can quickly be gathered to analyze traffic patterns. This can help communities determine what action needs to be taken to make the streets safer.

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