Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam

Road Signage Systems

Whether you're facing a small roadwork or a large infrastructure project, you can trust Safeside Traffic Control Ltd to deliver top-notch traffic management solutions that keep your projects moving forward safely and efficiently. Learn more about Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam here This isn't just any software; it's designed to predict and manage traffic patterns, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum safety. Plus, this gear's mobility means we can adapt on the fly to changing conditions, keeping your project on track without a hitch. As you consider the intricacies of managing vehicular and pedestrian traffic across varied project sites, you'll appreciate how this company's commitment to delivering customized traffic control plans stands out. You're not just managing vehicles; you're safeguarding lives.
Moreover, these strategic partnerships are a testament to Safeside's commitment to community involvement. Imagine roads where communication between vehicles and traffic control systems is seamless, minimizing human error and improving response times to incidents. Traffic Flow Control Devices They haven't stopped there. Learn more about Safeside Traffic Control Ltd Ensures Safety in Road Works Projects here. This means they're not just reacting to issues; they're proactively designing solutions that keep traffic flowing smoothly while ensuring the safety of workers and the public.
They're revolutionizing the field with innovations like smart cones, digital signage, and advanced surveillance systems.

Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam - Road Signage Systems

  • Temporary Traffic Flow Solutions
  • Pedestrian Traffic Safety
  • Detour Management
  • Road Traffic Solutions
  • Traffic Control Devices
  • Road Safety Services
  • Road Design and Management
  • Automated Traffic Control
  • Traffic Surveying
  • Public Transport Traffic Solutions
  • Temporary Lane Closures
  • Community Traffic Management
  • Roadworks Signage Solutions
  • Urban Road Management
  • Construction Detour Planning
  • Traffic Congestion Solutions
  • Event Traffic Planning
You'll find that our use of drone technology for aerial surveillance provides a bird's eye view of traffic flow, allowing for quicker adjustments and more accurate planning. In essence, their comprehensive traffic plans are more than just strategies; they're a commitment to maintaining safety and fluidity on the roads. Through their efforts, they're not just setting new standards; they're looking out for you, making sure every journey you take is as safe as it can be.
These tools not only grab attention but also adapt to changing conditions, providing up-to-the-minute instructions to road users. By collaborating closely, they ensure not only the safety and efficiency of your project but also a positive, stress-free experience from start to finish. Moreover, they're always innovating, integrating the latest technology and best practices into their operations. You're not just getting a service; you're partnering with a team that's committed to making your project a success story, too.

Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam Work Zone Safety Specialists

Expert Traffic Flow Control Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam

To ensure your project's utmost safety, we rigorously follow and constantly update our safety protocols, adapting to the latest industry standards. Road Signage Systems Imagine roads where traffic jams are a rarity, not the norm. Their approach is hands-on. It's not just about following rules; it's about understanding the dynamics of the road and the behavior of other users. One standout story comes from a major city event where we managed to streamline massive pedestrian and vehicle flows seamlessly.

Building on their recognized achievements, Safeside Traffic Control Ltd is now focusing on pioneering future innovations to further enhance traffic management and safety at construction sites and events. At Safeside Traffic Control Ltd, we understand that ensuring the safety of workers, pedestrians, and motorists isn't just about compliance; it's about creating a secure environment where everyone can feel confident moving forward. Meanwhile, digital signage offers real-time updates, guiding drivers and pedestrians safely around or through the work zone. This means you're benefiting from the most current practices in traffic management.

These systems adjust in real-time, reducing unnecessary stops and smoothing out traffic snarls. You've likely encountered traffic control measures without giving them much thought. This personalized approach hasn't only solidified their position as leaders in the field but also ensured that they're the go-to company for traffic control in Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam and beyond. You're not just getting traffic cones and signs; you're benefiting from a team that's trained in the latest traffic management techniques. Traffic Data Collection

We know that your time and resources are valuable. At Traffic Control Excellence in Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam, prioritizing safety isn't just a policy; it's the foundation of everything they do. Effective traffic control plans are tailored to the unique needs of each project, considering the specific challenges and goals. Their workshops and training programs are sought after, reflecting their status as thought leaders in the industry.

Construction Traffic Management Coquitlam

Entity Name Description Link
Coquitlam A city in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, Canada. Source
Road traffic control A mechanism that coordinates the flow of traffic on roads to ensure smooth and safe operations. Source
Teletraffic engineering The design and management of voice and data transmission over networks like the internet or phone lines. Source
Coquitlam Central station A station on the West Coast Express commuter rail line and SkyTrain rapid transit system, located in Coquitlam, British Columbia. Source
Traffic calming An approach to reduce vehicle speeds and improve safety on roads. Source
City A large human settlement, typically characterized by extensive systems for housing, transportation, sanitation, utilities, land use, and communication. Source
Lower Mainland A region in British Columbia, Canada, known for its diverse landscapes and ecosystems. Source
British Columbia The westernmost province of Canada, located between the Pacific Ocean and the Rocky Mountains. Source
Canada The second largest country in the world by land area, located in the northern part of North America. Source
Metro Vancouver Regional District A federation of 21 municipalities, one Electoral Area and one Treaty First Nation that collaboratively plans for and delivers regional-scale services in the Vancouver area. Source
Burquitlam station An elevated station on the Millennium Line of Metro Vancouver's SkyTrain rapid transit system. Source
Riverview Hospital (Coquitlam) A Canadian mental health facility located in Coquitlam, British Columbia. Source
Traffic management The planning, monitoring and control of traffic from one place to another to ensure a safe, smooth, and efficient transport system that meets access needs of people and freight. Source

Event Traffic Management Coquitlam

The young municipality got its first boost in 1889 when Frank Ross and James McLaren opened what would become Fraser Mills, a $350,000, then state-of-the-art lumber mill on the north bank of the Fraser River. The Corporation of the District of Coquitlam was incorporated in 1891. By 1908, a mill town of 20 houses, a store, post office, hospital, office block, barber shop, pool hall and Sikh temple had grown around the mill. A mill manager's residence was built that would later become Place des Arts.

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Road Safety Management Coquitlam

Citations and other links

Road Traffic Flow Services Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam

Following them can't only keep you updated on their latest news and services but also provides an alternative contact method through direct messages. You're experiencing a future where road safety is enhanced through technology, where every measure is a step towards preventing accidents before they happen. Safeside Traffic Control Ltd doesn't just manage traffic; they're paving the way for a future where road travel isn't only efficient but also significantly safer. We've got you covered, ensuring that your project, regardless of its location within our service areas, benefits from the highest standards of safety and efficiency. Each member of our team holds the necessary certifications and brings years of experience in traffic management.

Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam - Infrastructure Traffic Solutions

  • Vehicle Detour Solutions
  • Street Traffic Solutions
  • Traffic Flow Optimization
  • Automated Lane Control
  • Transportation Safety
  • Mobile Traffic Control
  • Traffic Coordination Services
  • Traffic Barricades
  • Highway Traffic Services
  • Roadway Construction Traffic
  • Smart Traffic Systems
  • Road Maintenance Traffic Solutions
  • Lane Management
  • Construction Traffic Management
  • Traffic Management for Events
  • Road Closures
  • Temporary Traffic Flow Solutions


Plus, our GPS tracking systems for equipment offer precise monitoring, ensuring that every piece is exactly where it needs to be for optimal operation.

Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam - Traffic Safety Assessments

  • Pedestrian Traffic Safety
  • Detour Management
  • Road Traffic Solutions
  • Traffic Control Devices
  • Road Safety Services
  • Road Design and Management
  • Automated Traffic Control
  • Traffic Surveying
  • Public Transport Traffic Solutions
  • Temporary Lane Closures
  • Community Traffic Management
  • Roadworks Signage Solutions
  • Urban Road Management
  • Construction Detour Planning
  • Traffic Congestion Solutions
  • Event Traffic Planning
  • Traffic Regulation Services
  • Lane Blockage Solutions
  • Pedestrian Zone Planning
Safeside Traffic Control Ltd provides a robust support system to ensure you're never left navigating challenges alone. You'll find that each team member isn't just skilled but also deeply committed to ensuring safety at construction sites and events. That's why we don't just offer off-the-shelf options.

And let's not forget about the technological aspect. These plans are designed to ensure the safety of workers, pedestrians, and motorists while maintaining efficient traffic flow. You'll find that their approach isn't just about managing the flow of cars and pedestrians; it's about reimagining how everyone moves through the city. You're probably wondering why this matters to you.

Moreover, our expertise isn't just theoretical. This adaptability means you won't have to worry about the common roadblocks that can slow down your progress. Moreover, their programs are designed to be hands-on. As Safeside Traffic Control Ltd grows, so does your confidence in their ability to handle the complexities of traffic management. Traffic Safety Assessments

Road Traffic Flow Services Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam
Lane Closure Management Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam

Lane Closure Management Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam

We've honed our skills over years, continually adapting to the latest industry standards and innovations. You've likely seen the effects of this growth firsthand. You've likely noticed the rise in traffic complexities and the urgent need for smarter solutions. Infrastructure Traffic Solutions You've seen how we prioritize efficiency in execution, but it's our project portfolio that truly reflects our capabilities and the trust our clients place in us.

Let's get your project moving safely and efficiently. Heavy Vehicle Traffic Management Your traffic control solutions have drastically reduced near-misses on our sites.' This feedback underscores the tangible impact of Safeside's work on the ground, where it matters most. You're getting a partner who's committed to implementing these strategies seamlessly.

This can be done over the phone, via video call, or in person, depending on what works best for you. They're acutely aware that people on foot are among the most vulnerable road users. This not only saved the company money but also enhanced their reputation for responsible project management.

Trust us to keep your journeys smooth and secure, because when it comes to road safety, we're always on your side. We don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Because at the end of the day, nothing's more important than getting everyone home safely.

Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam Street Closure Management

You're not just getting generic advice; you're benefiting from a wealth of knowledge tailored to your project's specific needs. That's why we've invested in a team that's not only experienced but also backed by rigorous certification.

Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam - Work Zone Traffic Control

  • Pedestrian Zone Planning
  • Traffic Flow Management
  • Traffic Signal Installation
  • Temporary Road Signs
  • Vehicle Detour Solutions
  • Street Traffic Solutions
  • Traffic Flow Optimization
  • Automated Lane Control
  • Transportation Safety
  • Mobile Traffic Control
  • Traffic Coordination Services
  • Traffic Barricades
  • Highway Traffic Services
  • Roadway Construction Traffic
  • Roadwork Traffic Management
  • Heavy Traffic Management
  • Traffic Flow Control Devices
  • Traffic Data Collection
Offering a comprehensive suite of traffic management services, we're equipped to meet your project's specific needs. You'll see their seasoned professionals meticulously planning and executing traffic control strategies that address the unique needs of each roadway project. Our digital two-way radios keep our teams in constant communication, facilitating swift responses to any situation.

They also offer a wide range of services to cover every aspect of traffic control. It's clear that managing traffic flow isn't just about keeping cars moving; it's a complex task that requires expertise, precision, and a deep understanding of safety protocols. They work closely with clients to tailor solutions that meet specific needs, ensuring that every project, regardless of size, is handled with the utmost precision. This level of preparation and expertise is what sets Safeside Traffic Control Ltd apart, making them a leader in enhancing road safety.

What sets them apart is their commitment to safety and efficiency. With years of experience under our belts, we've tackled everything from small roadworks to major infrastructure projects. It's all about minimizing risks and maximizing safety and efficiency from the get-go. Ensuring your project's safety and efficiency, our team consists exclusively of certified traffic control professionals.

Moreover, the rapidly changing landscape of roadworks can throw another curveball your way. You're not just getting a standard traffic management plan; you're receiving a customized strategy designed to fit your specific needs. Work Zone Traffic Control Don't hesitate to reach out. At Safeside Traffic Control Ltd, we're not just keeping up with the latest in traffic management technology; we're leading the charge.

Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam Street Closure Management
Roadway Traffic Control Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam
Roadway Traffic Control Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam

You're constantly assessing the effectiveness of your strategies, pinpointing areas where improvements can be made, and implementing changes swiftly. Our team is trained to think ahead, anticipating risks that aren't obvious at first glance. You're at the heart of their initiatives, playing a crucial role in shaping the strategies that affect your daily commute. By leveraging advanced technology, they're not only setting the standard in Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam but also redefining what effective traffic control looks like. They understand that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work when it comes to safety.

With Safeside Traffic Control Ltd, you'll find a comprehensive suite of traffic management services tailored to meet your specific needs.

Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam - Roadwork Traffic Management

  • Event Parking Solutions
  • Smart Traffic Systems
  • Road Maintenance Traffic Solutions
  • Lane Management
  • Construction Traffic Management
  • Traffic Management for Events
  • Road Closures
  • Temporary Traffic Flow Solutions
  • Pedestrian Traffic Safety
  • Detour Management
  • Road Traffic Solutions
  • Traffic Control Devices
  • Road Safety Services
  • Road Design and Management
  • Automated Traffic Control
  • Traffic Surveying
  • Public Transport Traffic Solutions
  • Temporary Lane Closures
  • Community Traffic Management
You're leveraging their continuous learning and passion for excellence, ensuring that your project benefits from the most effective and efficient traffic management strategies available. They offer workshops and seminars, equipping you with the knowledge to understand and advocate for better traffic control measures within your community. Imagine smart cones that alert drivers in real-time about potential hazards or dynamic signs that change based on current traffic conditions.

With thousands expected, the potential for traffic chaos was high. Each member brings years of experience in traffic management, ensuring that every plan isn't just a document, but a blueprint for safety and efficiency. They've gone through rigorous training programs and have been assessed on their ability to handle real-world traffic scenarios efficiently. It's clear they're not just thinking about cars; they're considering everyone who shares the road.

It's not just about speed; it's about creating a seamless journey for every road user. Looking ahead, Safeside Traffic Control Ltd is gearing up to introduce groundbreaking innovations that promise to redefine traffic management. Each member brings a unique set of skills and qualifications that, when combined, ensure the safety and efficiency of your traffic management needs. Our work on highway construction projects highlights our ability to handle high-speed environments, managing lane closures and detours with a focus on safety and minimally impacting travel times. Pedestrian Control Devices

Expert Road Traffic Management Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam

Their certifications aren't just pieces of paper; they're proof of their knowledge and commitment to keeping you safe. They're exploring eco-friendly options for equipment and operations, aiming to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining the highest safety standards. You'll see their team on the ground, implementing the strategies with precision and professionalism. This means we're always exactly where we need to be, right when it's crucial. They've turned what was once a reactive measure into a proactive safety solution, setting a new benchmark in the industry.
Moreover, we're keen on clear, concise communication. Moreover, their years of experience mean they've seen it all. Learn more about Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam here That's why they're committed to keeping the dialogue open, engaging with you to pave the way for safer roads.

Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam - Pedestrian Control Devices

  1. Roadwork Traffic Management
  2. Heavy Traffic Management
  3. Traffic Flow Control Devices
  4. Traffic Data Collection
  5. Event Parking Solutions
  6. Smart Traffic Systems
  7. Road Maintenance Traffic Solutions
  8. Lane Management
  9. Construction Traffic Management
  10. Traffic Management for Events
  11. Road Closures
  12. Temporary Traffic Flow Solutions
  13. Pedestrian Traffic Safety
  14. Detour Management
  15. Road Traffic Solutions
You might wonder what sets them apart.
Furthermore, our team utilizes mobile apps designed for direct communication with drivers.

Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam - Heavy Traffic Management

  1. Roadworks Signage Solutions
  2. Urban Road Management
  3. Construction Detour Planning
  4. Traffic Congestion Solutions
  5. Event Traffic Planning
  6. Traffic Regulation Services
  7. Lane Blockage Solutions
  8. Pedestrian Zone Planning
  9. Traffic Flow Management
  10. Traffic Signal Installation
  11. Temporary Road Signs
  12. Vehicle Detour Solutions
  13. Street Traffic Solutions
  14. Traffic Flow Optimization
  15. Automated Lane Control
  16. Transportation Safety
Read more about Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam here We've got your back, ensuring that your journey is as smooth and safe as possible. Moreover, Safeside's approach isn't one-size-fits-all. As we peel back the layers on how Safeside Traffic Control Ltd accomplishes this critical task, you'll discover the unseen heroes of our roads and why their work matters more than you might think.
We've also adopted the use of drones for aerial surveillance. This partnership guarantees that traffic flow is maintained, minimizing disruptions to the public and keeping your project on track. They're not just drawing lines on a map; they're engineering a solution that keeps everyone safe-workers, drivers, and pedestrians alike. This gives us a bird's eye view of traffic patterns and helps us identify issues before they escalate.

Expert Road Traffic Management Traffic Signage Rental Coquitlam
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Crossing from Fort Lee, Bergen County, New Jersey, into Manhattan, New York in heavy automobile traffic on the George Washington Bridge, the world's busiest motor vehicle bridge, transporting approximately 300,000 cars and trucks daily across the Hudson River.

Traffic comprises pedestrians, vehicles, ridden or herded animals, trains, and other conveyances that use public ways (roads/sidewalks) for travel and transportation.

Traffic laws govern and regulate traffic, while rules of the road include traffic laws and informal rules that may have developed over time to facilitate the orderly and timely flow of traffic.[1] Organized traffic generally has well-established priorities, lanes, right-of-way, and traffic control at intersections. (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea govern the oceans and influence some laws for navigating domestic waters.)

Traffic is formally organized in many jurisdictions, with marked lanes, junctions, intersections, interchanges, traffic signals, cones, or signs. Traffic is often classified by type: heavy motor vehicle (e.g., car, truck), other vehicle (e.g., moped, bicycle), and pedestrian. Different classes may share speed limits and easement, or may be segregated. Some jurisdictions may have very detailed and complex rules of the road while others rely more on drivers' common sense and willingness to cooperate.

Organization typically produces a better combination of travel safety and efficiency. Events which disrupt the flow and may cause traffic to degenerate into a disorganized mess include road construction, collisions, and debris in the roadway. On particularly busy freeways, a minor disruption may persist in a phenomenon known as traffic waves. A complete breakdown of organization may result in traffic congestion and gridlock. Simulations of organized traffic frequently involve queuing theory, stochastic processes and equations of mathematical physics applied to traffic flow.

Etymology and types

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Congestion in St. Louis, Missouri, early 20th century

The word traffic originally meant "trade" (as it still does) and comes from the Old Italian verb trafficare and noun traffico. The origin of the Italian words is unclear. Suggestions include Catalan trafegar "decant",[2] an assumed Vulgar Latin verb transfricare 'rub across',[3] an assumed Vulgar Latin combination of trans- and facere 'make or do',[3][4] Arabic tafriq 'distribution',[3] and Arabic taraffaqa, which can mean 'seek profit'.[4] Broadly, the term covers many kinds of traffic including network traffic, air traffic, marine traffic and rail traffic, but it is often used narrowly to mean only road traffic.

Rules of the road

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Traffic controller on Michigan Avenue in Chicago, Illinois
Traffic control in Rome, Italy. This traffic control podium can retract back to road level when not in use.

Rules of the road and driving etiquette are the general practices and procedures that road users are required to follow. These rules usually apply to all road users, though they are of special importance to motorists and cyclists. These rules govern interactions between vehicles and pedestrians. The basic traffic rules are defined by an international treaty under the authority of the United Nations, the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. Not all countries are signatory to the convention and, even among signatories, local variations in practice may be found. There are also unwritten local rules of the road, which are generally understood by local drivers.

As a general rule, drivers are expected to avoid a collision with another vehicle and pedestrians, regardless of whether or not the applicable rules of the road allow them to be where they happen to be.[5][6]

In addition to the rules applicable by default, traffic signs and traffic lights must be obeyed, and instructions may be given by a police officer, either routinely (on a busy crossing instead of traffic lights) or as road traffic control around a construction zone, accident, or other road disruption.

Directionality

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Traffic heading in inverse ways ought to be isolated so as to not hinder each other's way. The most essential guideline is whether to utilize the left or right half of the street.

Traffic regulations

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In many countries, the rules of the road are codified, setting out the legal requirements and punishments for breaking them.

In the United Kingdom, the rules are set out in the Highway Code, which includes not only obligations but also advice on how to drive sensibly and safely.

In the United States, traffic laws are regulated by the states and municipalities through their respective traffic codes. Most of these are based at least in part on the Uniform Vehicle Code, but there are variations from state to state. In states such as Florida, traffic law and criminal law are separate; therefore, unless someone flees the scene of an accident or commits vehicular homicide or manslaughter, they are only guilty of a minor traffic offense. However, states such as South Carolina have completely criminalised their traffic law, so, for example, one is guilty of a misdemeanor simply for travelling 5 miles over the speed limit.

Trail ethics (right of way)

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Trail ethics are a set of informal rules for right of way for users of trails, including hikers, mountaineers, equestrians, cyclists, and mountain bikers.

Organised traffic

[edit]

Passage priority (right of way)

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Vehicles often come into conflict with other vehicles and pedestrians because their intended courses of travel intersect, and thus interfere with each other's routes. The general principle that establishes who has the right to go first is called "right of way" or "priority". It establishes who has the right to use the conflicting part of the road and who has to wait until the other does so.

Yield sign in Switzerland. Mandatory direction to military traffic.

Signs, signals, markings and other features are often used to make priority explicit. Some signs, such as the stop sign, are nearly universal. When there are no signs or markings, different rules are observed depending on the location. These default priority rules differ between countries, and may even vary within countries. Trends toward uniformity are exemplified at an international level by the Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, which prescribes standardised traffic control devices (signs, signals, and markings) for establishing the right of way where necessary.

Crosswalks (or pedestrian crossings) are common in populated areas, and may indicate that pedestrians have priority over vehicular traffic. In most modern cities, the traffic signal is used to establish the right of way on the busy roads. Its primary purpose is to give each road a duration of time in which its traffic may use the intersection in an organised way. The intervals of time assigned for each road may be adjusted to take into account factors such as difference in volume of traffic, the needs of pedestrians, or other traffic signals. Pedestrian crossings may be located near other traffic control devices; if they are not also regulated in some way, vehicles must give priority to them when in use. Traffic on a public road usually has priority over other traffic such as traffic emerging from private access; rail crossings and drawbridges are typical exceptions.

Uncontrolled traffic

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Uncontrolled traffic comes in the absence of lane markings and traffic control signals. On roads without marked lanes, drivers tend to keep to the appropriate side if the road is wide enough. Drivers frequently overtake others. Obstructions are common.

Intersections have no signals or signage, and a particular road at a busy intersection may be dominant – that is, its traffic flows – until a break in traffic, at which time the dominance shifts to the other road where vehicles are queued. At the intersection of two perpendicular roads, a traffic jam may result if four vehicles face each other side-on.

Turning

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Drivers often seek to turn onto another road or onto private property. The vehicle's blinking turn signals (commonly known as "blinkers" or "indicators") are often used as a way to announce one's intention to turn, thus alerting other drivers. The actual usage of directional signals varies greatly amongst countries, although its purpose is to indicate a driver's intention to depart from the current (and natural) flow of traffic well before the departure is executed (typically 3 seconds as a guideline).

Center turn lane on a Georgia road

This will usually mean that turning traffic must stop and wait for a breach to turn, and this might cause inconvenience for drivers that follow them but do not want to turn. This is why dedicated lanes and protected traffic signals for turning are sometimes provided. On busier intersections where a protected lane would be ineffective or cannot be built, turning may be entirely prohibited, and drivers will be required to "drive around the block" in order to accomplish the turn. Many cities employ this tactic quite often; in San Francisco, due to its common practice, making three right turns is known colloquially as a "San Francisco left turn". Likewise, as many intersections in Taipei City are too busy to allow direct left turns, signs often direct drivers to drive around the block to turn.

Turning rules are by no means universal. For example, in New Zealand (a drive-on-the-left country) between 1977 and 2012, left turning traffic had to give way to opposing right-turning traffic wishing to take the same road (unless there were multiple lanes, but then one must take care in case a vehicle jumped lanes). New Zealand abolished this particular rule on 25 March 2012, except at roundabouts or when denoted by a Give Way or Stop sign.[7] Although the rule caused initial driver confusion, and many intersections required or still require modification,[8] the change is predicted to eventually prevent one death and 13 serious injuries annually.

On roads with multiple lanes, turning traffic is generally expected to move to the lane closest to the direction they wish to turn. For example, traffic intending to turn right will usually move to the rightmost lane before the intersection. Likewise, left-turning traffic will move to the leftmost lane. Exceptions to this rule may exist where for example the traffic authority decides that the two rightmost lanes will be for turning right, in which case drivers may take whichever of them to turn. Traffic may adapt to informal patterns that rise naturally rather than by force of authority. For example, it is common for drivers to observe (and trust) the turn signals used by other drivers in order to make turns from other lanes. If several vehicles on the right lane are all turning right, a vehicle may come from the next-to-right lane and turn right as well, in parallel with the other right-turning vehicles.

Intersections

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This intersection in San Jose, California has crosswalks, left-turn lanes, and traffic lights.

In most of Continental Europe, the default rule is to give priority to the right, but this may be overridden by signs or road markings. There, priority was initially given according to the social rank of each traveler, but early in the life of the automobile this rule was deemed impractical and replaced with the priorité à droite (priority to the right) rule, which still applies. At a traffic circle where priorité à droite is not overridden, traffic on what would otherwise be a roundabout gives way to traffic entering the circle. Most French roundabouts now have give-way signs for traffic entering the circle, but there remain some notable exceptions that operate on the old rule, such as the Place de l'Étoile around the Arc de Triomphe. Priority to the right where used in continental Europe may be overridden by an ascending hierarchy of markings, signs, signals, and authorized persons.

Roundabout in a country where traffic drives on the right. Traffic streams circularly around a central island after first yielding to circulating traffic. Unlike with traffic circles, vehicles on a roundabout have priority over the entering vehicle, parking is not allowed and pedestrians are usually prohibited from the central island.
intersection of two-way streets as seen from above (traffic flows on the right side of the road). The east–west street has left turn lanes from both directions, but the north–south street does not have left turn lanes at this intersection. The east–west street traffic lights also have green left turn arrows to show when unhindered left turns can be made. Some possible markings for crosswalks are shown.

In the United Kingdom, priority is generally indicated by signs or markings, so that almost all junctions between public roads (except those governed by traffic signals) have a concept of a major road and minor road. The default give-way-to-the-right rule used in Continental Europe causes problems for many British and Irish drivers who are accustomed to having right of way by default unless otherwise indicated. A very small proportion of low-traffic junctions are unmarked – typically on housing estates or in rural areas. Here the rule is to "proceed with great care"[9] i.e. slow the vehicle and check for traffic on the intersecting road.

Other countries use various methods similar to the above examples to establish the right of way at intersections. For example, in most of the United States, the default priority is to yield to traffic from the right, but this is usually overridden by traffic control devices or other rules, like the boulevard rule. This rule holds that traffic entering a major road from a smaller road or alley must yield to the traffic of the busier road, but signs are often still posted. The boulevard rule can be compared with the above concept of a major and minor road, or the priority roads that may be found in countries that are parties to the Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals.

Perpendicular intersections

Also known as a "four-way" intersection, this intersection is the most common configuration for roads that cross each other, and the most basic type.

If traffic signals do not control a four-way intersection, signs or other features are typically used to control movements and make clear priorities. The most common arrangement is to indicate that one road has priority over the other, but there are complex cases where all traffic approaching an intersection must yield and may be required to stop.

In the United States, South Africa, and Canada, there are four-way intersections with a stop sign at every entrance, called four-way stops. A failed signal or a flashing red light is equivalent to a four-way stop, or an all-way stop. Special rules for four-way stops may include:

  1. In the countries that use four-way stops, pedestrians always have priority at crosswalks – even at unmarked ones, which exist as the logical continuations of the sidewalks at every intersection with approximately right angles – unless signed or painted otherwise.
  2. Whichever vehicle first stops at the stop line – or before the crosswalk, if there is no stop line – has priority.
  3. If two vehicles stop at the same time, priority is given to the vehicle on the right.
  4. If several vehicles arrive at the same time, a right-of-way conflict may arise wherein no driver has the legal right-of-way. This may result in drivers informally signaling to other drivers to indicate their intent to yield, for example by waving or flashing headlights.[10]

In Europe and other places, there are similar intersections. These may be marked by special signs (according to the Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals), a danger sign with a black X representing a crossroads. This sign informs drivers that the intersection is uncontrolled and that default rules apply. In Europe and in many areas of North America the default rules that apply at uncontrolled four-way intersections are almost identical:

  1. Rules for pedestrians differ by country, in the United States and Canada pedestrians generally have priority at such an intersection.
  2. All vehicles must give priority to any traffic approaching from their right,
  3. Then, if the vehicle is turning right or continuing on the same road it may proceed.
  4. Vehicles turning left must also give priority to traffic approaching from the opposite direction, unless that traffic is also turning left.
  5. If the intersection is congested, vehicles must alternate directions and/or circulate priority to the right one vehicle at a time. [citation needed]

Protected intersection for bicycles

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A number of features make this protected intersection. A corner refuge island, a setback crossing of the pedestrians and cyclists, generally between 1.5–7 metres of setback, a forward stop bar, which allows cyclists to stop for a traffic light well ahead of motor traffic who must stop behind the crosswalk. Separate signal staging or at least an advance green for cyclists and pedestrians is used to give cyclists and pedestrians no conflicts or a head start over traffic. The design makes a right turn on red, and sometimes left on red depending on the geometry of the intersection in question, possible in many cases, often without stopping.[11]

This type of intersection is common in the bicycle-friendly Netherlands.[12]

Protected intersection design based on a common Dutch model, preserving the physical segregation of the cycle lane throughout the intersection

Pedestrian crossings

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Pedestrians must often cross from one side of a road to the other, and in doing so may come into the way of vehicles traveling on the road. In many places pedestrians are entirely left to look after themselves, that is, they must observe the road and cross when they can see that no traffic will threaten them. Busier cities usually provide pedestrian crossings, which are strips of the road where pedestrians are expected to cross.

Slovenia, 1961

The actual appearance of pedestrian crossings varies greatly, but the two most common appearances are: (1) a series of lateral white stripes or (2) two longitudinal white lines. The former is usually preferred, as it stands out more conspicuously against the dark pavement.

Some pedestrian crossings accompany a traffic signal to make vehicles stop at regular intervals so pedestrians can cross. Some countries have "intelligent" pedestrian signals, where the pedestrian must push a button in order to assert their intention to cross. In some countries, approaching traffic is monitored by radar or by electromagnetic sensors buried in the road surface, and the pedestrian crossing lights are set to red if a speed infringement is detected. This has the effect of enforcing the local speed limit. See Speed Limits below.

Pedestrian crossings without traffic signals are also common. In this case, the traffic laws usually states that the pedestrian has the right of way when crossing, and that vehicles must stop when a pedestrian uses the crossing. Countries and driving cultures vary greatly as to the extent to which this is respected. In the state of Nevada the car has the right of way when the crosswalk signal specifically forbids pedestrian crossing. Traffic culture is a determinant factor for the behaviors of all road users’ traffic. Specifically, it has a main role in crashes.[13]

Some jurisdictions forbid crossing or using the road anywhere other than at crossings, termed jaywalking. In other areas, pedestrians may have the right to cross where they choose, and have right of way over vehicular traffic while crossing.

In most areas, an intersection is considered to have a crosswalk, even if not painted, as long as the roads meet at approximate right angles. The United Kingdom and Croatia are among the exceptions.

Pedestrian crossings may also be located away from intersections.

Level crossings

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An example of a typical rail crossing in the United States as an Amtrak Carolinian and Piedmont train passes through

A level crossing is an at-grade intersection of a railway by a road. Because of safety issues, they are often equipped with closable gates, crossing bells and warning signs.

Speed limits

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The higher the speed of a vehicle, the more difficult collision avoidance becomes and the greater the damage if a collision does occur. Therefore, many countries of the world limit the maximum speed allowed on their roads. Vehicles are not supposed to be driven at speeds which are higher than the posted maximum.

To enforce speed limits, two approaches are generally employed. In the United States, it is common for the police to patrol the streets and use special equipment (typically a radar unit) to measure the speed of vehicles, and pull over any vehicle found to be in violation of the speed limit. In Brazil, Colombia and some European countries, there are computerized speed-measuring devices spread throughout the city, which will automatically detect speeding drivers and take a photograph of the license plate (or number plate), which is later used for applying and mailing the ticket. Many jurisdictions in the U.S. use this technology as well.

A mechanism that was developed in Germany is the Grüne Welle, or green wave, which is an indicator that shows the optimal speed to travel for the synchronized green lights along that corridor. Driving faster or slower than the speed set by the behavior of the lights causes the driver to encounter many red lights. This discourages drivers from speeding or impeding the flow of traffic. See related traffic wave and Pedestrian Crossings, above.

Overtaking

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Overtaking (or passing) refers to a maneuver by which one or more vehicles traveling in the same direction are passed by another vehicle. On two-lane roads, when there is a split line or a dashed line on the side of the overtaker, drivers may overtake when it is safe. On multi-lane roads in most jurisdictions, overtaking is permitted in the "slower" lanes, though many require a special circumstance. See "Lanes" below.

In the United Kingdom and Canada, notably on extra-urban roads, a solid white or yellow line closer to the driver is used to indicate that no overtaking is allowed in that lane. A double white or yellow line means that neither side may overtake.

In the United States, a solid white line means that lane changes are discouraged and a double white line means that the lane change is prohibited.

Lanes

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Changing lanes on an 8-lane road outside Gothenburg, Sweden

When a street is wide enough to accommodate several vehicles traveling side-by-side, it is usual for traffic to organize itself into lanes, that is, parallel corridors of traffic. Some roads have one lane for each direction of travel and others have multiple lanes for each direction. Most countries apply pavement markings to clearly indicate the limits of each lane and the direction of travel that it must be used for. In other countries lanes have no markings at all and drivers follow them mostly by intuition rather than visual stimulus.

On roads that have multiple lanes going in the same direction, drivers may usually shift amongst lanes as they please, but they must do so in a way that does not cause inconvenience to other drivers. Driving cultures vary greatly on the issue of "lane ownership": in some countries, drivers traveling in a lane will be very protective of their right to travel in it while in others drivers will routinely expect other drivers to shift back and forth.

Designation and overtaking

The usual designation for lanes on divided highways is the fastest lane is the one closest to the center of the road, and the slowest to the edge of the road. Drivers are usually expected to keep in the slowest lane unless overtaking, though with more traffic congestion all lanes are often used.

When driving on the left:

  • The lane designated for faster traffic is on the right.
  • The lane designated for slower traffic is on the left.
  • Most freeway exits are on the left.
  • Overtaking is permitted to the right, and sometimes to the left.

When driving on the right:

  • The lane designated for faster traffic is on the left.
  • The lane designated for slower traffic is on the right.
  • Most freeway exits are on the right.
  • Overtaking is permitted to the left, and sometimes to the right.

Countries party to the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic have uniform rules about overtaking and lane designation. The convention details (amongst other things) that "Every driver shall keep to the edge of the carriageway appropriate to the direction of traffic", and the "Drivers overtaking shall do so on the side opposite to that appropriate to the direction of traffic", notwithstanding the presence or absence of oncoming traffic. Allowed exceptions to these rules include turning or heavy traffic, traffic in lines, or situation in which signs or markings must dictate otherwise. These rules must be more strictly adhered to on roads with oncoming traffic, but still apply on multi-lane and divided highways. Many countries in Europe are party to the Vienna Conventions on traffic and roads. In Australia (which is not a contracting party), traveling in any lane other than the "slow" lane on a road with a speed limit at or above 80 km/h (50 mph) is an offence, unless signage is posted to the contrary or the driver is overtaking.

Many areas in North America do not have any laws about staying to the slowest lanes unless overtaking. In those areas, unlike many parts of Europe, traffic is allowed to overtake on any side, even in a slower lane. This practice is known as "passing on the right" in the United States and "overtaking on the inside" and "undertaking" in the United Kingdom. When referring to individual lanes on dual carriageways, one does not consider traffic travelling the opposite direction. The inside lane (in the British English sense, i.e. the lane beside the hard shoulder) refers to the lane used for normal travel, while the middle lane is used for overtaking cars on the inside lane. The outside lane (i.e. closest to oncoming traffic) is used for overtaking vehicles in the middle lane. The same principle lies with dual carriageways with more than three lanes.

U.S.-state-specific practices

In some US states (such as Louisiana, Massachusetts and New York), although there are laws requiring all traffic on a public way to use the right-most lane unless overtaking, this rule is often ignored and seldom enforced on multi-lane roadways. Some states, such as Colorado, use a combination of laws and signs restricting speeds or vehicles on certain lanes to emphasize overtaking only on the left lane, and to avoid a psychological condition commonly called road rage.

In California, cars may use any lane on multi-lane roadways. Drivers moving slower than the general flow of traffic are required to stay in the right-most lanes (by California Vehicle Code (CVC) 21654) to keep the way clear for faster vehicles and thus speed up traffic. However, faster drivers may legally pass in the slower lanes if conditions allow (by CVC 21754). But the CVC also requires trucks to stay in the right lane, or in the right two lanes if the roadway has four or more lanes going in their direction. The oldest freeways in California, and some freeway interchanges, often have ramps on the left, making signs like "TRUCKS OK ON LEFT LANE" or "TRUCKS MAY USE ALL LANES" necessary to override the default rule. Lane splitting, or riding motorcycles in the space between cars in traffic, is permitted as long as it is done in a safe and prudent manner.[14]

One-way roadways

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One-way traffic on Anawrahta road, Yangon

In order to increase traffic capacity and safety, a route may have two or more separate roads for each direction of traffic. Alternatively, a given road might be declared one-way.

High-speed roads

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In large cities, moving from one part of the city to another by means of ordinary streets and avenues can be time-consuming since traffic is often slowed by at-grade junctions, tight turns, narrow marked lanes and lack of a minimum speed limit. Therefore, it has become common practice for larger cities to build roads for faster through traffic. There are two different types of roads used to provide high-speed access across urban areas:

  • The controlled-access highway (freeway or motorway) is a divided multi-lane highway with fully controlled access and grade-separated intersections (no cross traffic). Some freeways are called expressways, super-highways, or turnpikes, depending on local usage. Access to freeways is fully controlled; entering and leaving the freeway is permitted only at grade-separated interchanges.
  • The limited-access road (often called expressway in areas where the name does not refer to a freeway or motorway) is a lower-grade type of road with some or many of the characteristics of a controlled-access highway: usually a broad multi-lane avenue, frequently divided, with some grade separation at intersections.

Motor vehicle drivers wishing to travel over great distances within the city will usually take the freeways or expressways in order to minimize travel time. When a crossing road is at the same grade as the freeway, a bridge (or, less often, an underpass) will be built for the crossing road. If the freeway is elevated, the crossing road will pass underneath it.

Minimum speed signs are sometimes posted (although increasingly rare) and usually indicate that any vehicle traveling slower than 40 mph (64 km/h) should indicate a slower speed of travel to other motor vehicles by engaging the vehicle's four-way flashing lights. Alternative slower-than-posted speeds may be in effect, based on the posted speed limit of the highway/freeway.

Systems of freeways and expressways are also built to connect distant and regional cities, notable systems include the Interstate highways, the Autobahnen and the Expressway Network of the People's Republic of China.

One-way streets

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In more sophisticated systems such as large cities, this concept is further extended: some streets are marked as being one-way, and on those streets all traffic must flow in only one direction. Pedestrians on the sidewalks are generally not limited to one-way movement. Drivers wishing to reach a destination they have already passed must return via other streets. One-way streets, despite the inconveniences to some individual drivers, can greatly improve traffic flow since they usually allow traffic to move faster and tend to simplify intersections.

Congested traffic

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Traffic slows to a crawl on the Monash Freeway in Melbourne, Australia through peak hour traffic.

In some places traffic volume is consistently, extremely large, either during periods of time referred to as rush hour or perpetually. Exceptionally, traffic upstream of a vehicular collision or an obstruction, such as construction, may also be constrained, resulting in a traffic jam. Such dynamics in relation to traffic congestion is known as traffic flow. Traffic engineers sometimes gauge the quality of traffic flow in terms of level of service.

In measured traffic data, common spatiotemporal empirical features of traffic congestion have been found that are qualitatively the same for different highways in different countries. Some of these common features distinguish the wide moving jam and synchronized flow phases of congested traffic in Kerner's three-phase traffic theory.

Rush hour

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During business days in most major cities, traffic congestion reaches great intensity at predictable times of the day due to the large number of vehicles using the road at the same time. This phenomenon is called rush hour or peak hour, although the period of high traffic intensity often exceeds one hour. Since the advent of car radios, radio programming during rush hour is likely to be called drive time.

Congestion mitigation

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Rush hour policies

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Some cities adopt policies to reduce rush-hour traffic and pollution and encourage the use of public transportation. For example, in São Paulo, Manila[15] and in Mexico City, each vehicle has a specific day of the week in which it is forbidden from traveling the roads during rush hour. The day for each vehicle is taken from the license plate number, and this rule is enforced by traffic police and also by hundreds of strategically positioned traffic cameras backed by computerized image-recognition systems that issue tickets to offending drivers.

In the United States and Canada, several expressways have a special lane (called an "HOV Lane" – High Occupancy Vehicle Lane) that can only be used by cars carrying two (some locations-three) or more people. Also, many major cities have instituted strict parking prohibitions during rush hour on major arterial streets leading to and from the central business district. During designated weekday hours, vehicles parked on these primary routes are subject to prompt ticketing and towing at owner expense. The purpose of these restrictions is to make available an additional traffic lane in order to maximize available traffic capacity. Additionally, several cities offer a public telephone service where citizens can arrange rides with others depending on where they live and work. The purpose of these policies is to reduce the number of vehicles on the roads and thus reduce rush-hour traffic intensity.

Metered freeways are also a solution for controlling rush hour traffic. In Phoenix, Arizona and Seattle, Washington, among other places, metered on-ramps have been implemented. During rush hour, traffic signals are used with green lights to allow one car per blink of the light to proceed on to the freeway.

Rush hour is typically caused by multiple cars all going to once place at the same time. There is no way to fix the issue because the economy has set times for work, school, and running errands all during the same hours. There is no avoiding this problem because it exists in every major metropolitan area in the world. [16]

Pre-emption

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In some areas, emergency responders are provided with specialized equipment, such as a Mobile Infrared Transmitter, which allows emergency response vehicles, particularly fire-fighting apparatus, to have high-priority travel by having the lights along their route change to green. The technology behind these methods has evolved, from panels at the fire department (which could trigger and control green lights for certain major corridors) to optical systems (which the individual fire apparatus can be equipped with to communicate directly with receivers on the signal head). In certain jurisdictions, public transport buses and government-operated winter service vehicles are permitted to use this equipment to extend the length of a green light.[17]

During emergencies where evacuation of a heavily populated area is required, local authorities may institute contraflow lane reversal, in which all lanes of a road lead away from a danger zone regardless of their original flow. Aside from emergencies, contraflow may also be used to ease traffic congestion during rush hour or at the end of a sports event (where a large number of cars are leaving the venue at the same time). For example, the six lanes of the Lincoln Tunnel can be changed from three inbound and three outbound to a two/four configuration depending on traffic volume. The Brazilian highways Rodovia dos Imigrantes and Rodovia Anchieta connect São Paulo to the Atlantic coast. Almost all lanes of both highways are usually reversed during weekends to allow for heavy seaside traffic. The reversibility of the highways requires many additional highway ramps and complicated interchanges.

Intelligent transportation systems

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An intelligent transportation system (ITS) is a system of hardware, software, and operators-in-the-loop that allow better monitoring and control of traffic in order to optimize traffic flow. As the number of vehicle lane miles traveled per year continues to increase dramatically, and as the number of vehicle lane miles constructed per year has not been keeping pace, this has led to ever-increasing traffic congestion. As a cost-effective solution toward optimizing traffic, ITS presents a number of technologies to reduce congestion by monitoring traffic flows through the use of sensors and live cameras or analysing cellular phone data travelling in cars (floating car data) and in turn rerouting traffic as needed through the use of variable message boards (VMS), highway advisory radio, on board or off board navigation devices and other systems through integration of traffic data with navigation systems. Additionally, the roadway network has been increasingly fitted with additional communications and control infrastructure to allow traffic operations personnel to monitor weather conditions, for dispatching maintenance crews to perform snow or ice removal, as well as intelligent systems such as automated bridge de-icing systems which help to prevent accidents.

Aviation

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In aviation, right-of-way rules are established over the principle that the least maneuverable aircraft takes priority. In the United States, the Code of Federal Regulations ranks air traffic in the following passage order:[18]

In addition, head-on approaching aircraft shall alter course to the right. An aircraft being overtaken has the right-of-way. A landing aircraft has the right-of-way over other surface-operating aircraft.[18]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "Traffic definition and meaning | Collins English Dictionary". www.collinsdictionary.com. Retrieved 3 January 2020.
  2. ^ "traffic". American Heritage Dictionary (Fifth ed.). 2013. Retrieved 23 March 2014.
  3. ^ a b c Harper, Douglas (2001–2014). "traffic (n.)". Online Etymological Dictionary. Retrieved 23 March 2014.
  4. ^ a b "traffic, n.". OED Online. Oxford University Press. March 2014.
  5. ^ Davies v. Mann, 152 Eng. Rep. 588 (1842)
  6. ^ see legal doctrine of Last Clear Chance
  7. ^ Dearnaley, Mathew (2 September 2011). "Give-way rule change: Campaign to avoid crashes". The New Zealand Herald. Retrieved 23 November 2011.
  8. ^ Preston, Nikki (23 February 2012). "'Wait and see approach' on left turn rule". The New Zealand Herald. Retrieved 26 February 2012.
  9. ^ "The Highway Code – Rule 176". Retrieved 7 November 2012.
  10. ^ Oosting, Jonathan (3 September 2012). "Traffic Talk: Breaking down four-way stop sign scenarios, laws and common-sense courtesies". mlive. Archived from the original on 17 September 2017.
  11. ^ "Out of the Box Transcript.docx" (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on 9 October 2022. Retrieved 20 September 2018.
  12. ^ "Junction design in the Netherlands". 23 February 2014.
  13. ^ Varmazyar, S.; Mortazavi, SB; Arghami, S.; Hajizadeh, E. (2014). "Relationship between organisational safety culture dimensions and crashes". International Journal of Injury Control and Safety Promotion. 23 (1): 72–8. doi:10.1080/17457300.2014.947296. PMID 25494102. S2CID 26702114.
  14. ^ WhyBike? (6 March 2006). "All the info you need on lanesharing (lanesplitting)".
  15. ^ Andrew Downie (21 April 2008). "The World's Worst Traffic Jams". Time. Retrieved 2008-06-20
  16. ^ Downs, Anthony (1 January 2004). "Traffic: Why It's Getting Worse, What Government Can Do". Brookings. Retrieved 2 June 2023.
  17. ^ "625 ILCS 5/12-601.1. Traffic control signal preemption devices.". Illinois Compiled Statutes. Illinois General Assembly. 2 July 2003. Retrieved 2 December 2018.
  18. ^ a b "14 CFR 91.113". Code of Federal Regulations. 27 July 2004. Retrieved 24 November 2023.

Further reading

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