01476994

Component

Traffic signs are an important communication tool used to convey regulatory, warning, and guidance information to road users. The process for understanding user requirements for a new sign is particularly important for symbol signs, which rely on a common non-verbal interpretation by a large and diverse population of drivers. If easily understood, symbol signs can be more effective than word message signs. In this study, researchers conducted 103 surveys to determine driver comprehension and legibility for multiple sign alternatives in nine sign message categories. The sign categories were: Alternate Merge, Bike Symbol, Grade Crossing (Crossbuck), Pedestrian Crossing, Toll Collection, Truck Rollover with Advisory Speed Limit, Trucks in Roundabouts, Walk Bikes and Weave. Based on the results of the comprehension and legibility testing, the research team provided recommendations on symbols that should be included in the next edition of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).

This paper was sponsored by TRB committee AHB50 Traffic Control Devices.

01470560

13-3647

English

19p

2013

Transportation Research Board 92nd Annual Meeting

Digital/other

Figures; References; Tables

Comprehension; Legibility; Symbol signs

Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices

Highways; Safety and Human Factors; I85: Safety Devices used in Transport Infrastructure

Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting 2013 Paper #13-3647

TRIS, TRB, ATRI

Feb 5 2013 12:43PM