Most Americans drive along a highway at some point in their life. The roads feature a number of safety elements that keep drivers safe as they travel over bridges, around narrow turns and near falling rocks. State and federal transportation departments work tirelessly to design highways with safety and functionality in mind. They want you to get from point A to point B in one piece.
Guard Rails
Guard rails from a highwasy service company offer protection where the ground falls away from the road. Instead of the vehicle going off the road and into a steep ditch or body of water, the vehicle comes to a controlled stop. The guard rail is held down with wooden posts that lift up as the metal crunches to stop the vehicle.
Rumble Strips
Rumble strips are cut into the asphalt to create grooved or raised patterns. When the driver drifts over them, the tires make a noise alerting the driver to return to their lane.
Signs
In addition to street signs that alert you to locations, signs are all over the roadways to alert drivers of potential dangers. Falling rocks signs dot mountainous or hilly areas with the potential for a rock slide. Sharp curve and turn signs alert drivers to slow down before the road bends. Many signs feature a bottom that breaks away if hit.
Median Barriers
Large highways especially in large cities feature a concrete median barrier between two opposing travel directions. The concrete barrier is tapered keeping vehicles on their side of the road. The dangers of a vehicle crossing into oncoming traffic are mitigated thanks to the concrete.
The safety improvements on roadways allow drivers to safely travel about the country. Cities have grown huge and safely containing the bustling traffic is a must. Clear white and yellow lines keep drivers in their designated lanes. These safety features help lower the risks of accidents.