Smart Strategies for Safer Roads
Road agencies have a fundamental duty to keep the public right-of-way reasonably safe. When pavement distress, drainage failures, missing signs, or other hazards are left uncorrected, the danger is not limited to flat tires or cracked windshields, it extends to expensive lawsuits that can drain already thin transportation budgets. How Negligence Turns into Liability Courts … Read more
Every day, municipal highway crews wrestle with the same grim reality: more than 42,000 people were killed on U.S. roads in 2021 alone – a figure local officials feel in their own communities (highways.dot.gov). Tight budgets often force leaders to choose between large capital projects and day-to-day maintenance, but safety doesn’t always require seven-figure … Read more
Highway supervisors play a crucial role in ensuring that roads are safe, well-maintained, and compliant with ever-evolving standards. But to lead effectively and protect both their crews and the traveling public, these supervisors must stay current with modern safety practices. That’s where continuing education and focused training come in. Why Training Matters The world of … Read more
Modern roadways are no longer just paved paths marked with static signs. Increasingly, they are being enhanced with dynamic signage – electronic, real-time displays that respond to traffic conditions, weather, emergencies, and construction zones. These smart signs are revolutionizing highway safety and traffic efficiency by delivering timely, situation-specific information to drivers when it matters most. … Read more
When it comes to roadway safety, one of the most overlooked yet critical components is clear and consistent pavement markings. Whether it’s centerlines, stop bars, crosswalks, or directional arrows, these visual cues provide essential information to motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians. When properly maintained, they help prevent accidents and reduce a municipality’s exposure to liability claims. … Read more
When we talk about road safety, the conversation often revolves around reducing vehicle crashes and improving driver behavior. But modern transportation planning takes a broader and smarter approach. Enter the concept of Complete Streets: a design philosophy that considers the safety, accessibility, and needs of all users of the road, not just drivers. Complete Streets … Read more
Intersections are critical points on the road where traffic meets and diverges, and they are often locations where accidents are more likely to occur. Among the various safety measures that help reduce these risks, one effective but sometimes overlooked tool is the use of backplates with retroreflective borders on traffic signals. These simple enhancements can … Read more
Roundabouts are becoming an increasingly common feature on roadways worldwide, and for good reason. As a safer, more efficient alternative to traditional intersections, roundabouts have been shown to reduce both the frequency and severity of accidents. By promoting smoother traffic flow and minimizing conflict points, roundabouts have proven to be a vital tool in improving … Read more