The Importance of LED-Enhanced Signs
LED-enhanced signs are commonly used to draw attention to places where additional care or caution is needed by drivers. There might be a road with a dangerous curve, a blind pedestrian crossing, or an area of inclement weather, where LED lights can enhance and prompt a driver better than a typical traffic sign. This additional visual cue can help to not only protect the driver but others on the road along with pedestrians. All LED-enhanced signs must meet MUTCD regulations.
Here are some of the most common types of LED-enhanced signs.
Stop Signs
Led-enhanced stop signs can be the solution to improve sign recognition and command a driver’s attention.
Crossings and Roundabouts
At times, pedestrian crossings and roundabouts are not well-marked, especially those at a mid-block. A 2011 Vermont study showed a 23 percent increase in yield-to-pedestrian data after an LED-enhanced sign was installed. The total yield rate was 80 percent.
Increase visibility by properly installing the crossing and adding a highly conspicuous pedestrian sign. It can be actuated by push button, motion or duration. Further distinguish the crossing by adding pavement lighting to enhance visibility.
Rectangular Rapid Flash Beacon
Rectangular Rapid Flash Beacon (RRFB) LED Crosswalk Warning Systems are user-actuated LED enhanced signs that draw attention when a pedestrian is about to enter the crosswalk. Research data by the City of St. Petersburg, FL shows very high rates of motorists yielding to pedestrians, mostly in the high 80 percent range, in comparison to far lower rates (15 to 20 percent) for standard beacons.
Do Not Enter and Wrong Way
Do Not Enter and Wrong Way LED signs alert drivers when they are traveling in the wrong direction. Wrong way driving factored into 3.1 percent of all fatal crashes in the U.S., according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). San Antonio saw a 30 percent reduction after installing Wrong Way and Do Not Enter warning systems.
Curve Warning Systems
Curve Warning Systems send a wireless communication and synchronize LED signs dynamically to warn and guide motorists through a dangerous curve. This signal directs the chevrons to flash sequentially, directing the driver to follow. Curve systems reduce head-on and cross-median crashes and help to prevent road departures.