Benefits
Breakaway Signs Reduce Hazard
Replacement of non-compliant signs over a 7- to 10-year span can be coordinated with sign support replacement to save costs.(40)
FHWA is concerned about agency awareness
MUTCD section 2A.19 states that road sign supports in the clear zone "shall be breakaway, yielding or shielded..." FWHA recognizes that the "easiest way to accomplish this is to begin using breakaway supports when installing new signs for replacing damaged supports." Common solutions are:(40)- Wood posts (4x4, Southern Pine or Douglas Fir are two suitable types)
- Larger wood posts drilled and positioned to break predictably
- Steel posts with breakaway or bend characteristics.
FHWA Road Departure Safety Document
40 Safe sign supports: are yours breakaway yet? FHWA, USDOT brochure
41 https://bookstore.transporation.org for "A Guide to Small Sign Support Hardware" (code GSSSH-1)
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