MUTCD, 2003 Edition FHWA, US DOT http://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/index.htm March 2008 962R561200 1
Overview The traffic control devices (TCD) are very critical for the safe and efficient transportation of people and goods. The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), by setting minimum standards and providing guidance, ensures uniformity of traffic control devices across the nation. The use of uniform TCDs (messages, location, size, shapes, and colors) helps reduce crashes and congestion, and improves the efficiency of the surface transportation system. 962R561200 2
The evolution of MUTCD Provided by H. Gene Hawkins, Jr. published in the ITE Journal published between 1991 and 1994 The Horseless Carriage Arrives But First, Some Other Firsts 1911, a centerline is painted on a Michigan road. 1914, the first electric traffic signal is installed in Cleveland. 1915, the first STOP sign appears in Detroit. 1916, the Federal-Aid Act requires that a State have a highway department before it can get Federal money. 1918, Wisconsin is the first state to erect official route signs as part of its maintenance functions. 1920, the first 3-color traffic signal is installed in Detroit. 962R561200 3
The First Signs of the Times round signs warned of approaching railroad crossings, which even then represented the most potential danger to the driver. The octagon advised of the next level of danger - the need to STOP for intersections. Diamond signs indicated more ordinary conditions that required drivers to be cautious. Rectangular signs provided direction or other regulatory information. All signs were black letters on white background and were limited to 2 feet (0.6 m) square - that was the maximum width of sign-making equipment. In 1924, the First National Conference on Street and Highway Safety (NCSHS) improved on earlier efforts and proposed standardizing colors for traffic control devices. 962R561200 4
The First Signing Manual in 1924, the American Association of State Highway Officials (AASHO, the forerunner of AASHTO) took earlier efforts one step further by issuing a report that combined the previous efforts to standardize sign shapes and colors. The importance of the AASHO report is that it became the basis for the first guidebook, Manual and Specifications for the Manufacture, Display, and Erection of U.S. Standard Road Markers and Signs, in 1927. the Manual on Street Traffic Signs, Signals, and Markings was published to address urban traffic control devices. 962R561200 5
MUTCD, Vol. 1 It was immediately apparent that having two different manuals simply confused the attempt to standardize traffic control devices. Thus in 1932, AASHO and NCSHS formed the first Joint Committee on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (JC). In 1935, the first MUTCD was published. The demand for the manual was so great, that a printed version was published in 1937. The 1935 edition set the standard for types of signs by classifying them as regulatory, warning, or guide signs. 962R561200 6
Traffic Signs The shape and color - Give Us a Sign REGULATORY signs instruct drivers to do - or not do - something. WARNING signs alert drivers to existing or potentially hazardous road conditions. GUIDE signs come in a variety of shapes and colors - each one with an important message to help drivers arrive at their destinations safely. 962R561200 7
The shape and color - Give us a Sign MOTORIST SERVICE signs CONSTRUCTION signs are orange diamonds specifically used only to WARN drivers about construction and work zone activity. And don't forget to slow down and give road crews a 'brake'! Brown RECREATION signs direct us to areas of public recreation and cultural interest. In addition to swimming, skiing, boating, and fishing areas, these signs also direct us to the services in recreation areas, including first aid, post office, and food service. 962R561200 8
REGULATORY Signs A crossbuck indicates the railroad crossing. Black and white rectangular regulatory signs control lane use. A rectangular white sign with green letters indicates that parking is permitted with restrictions. We all know that the octagon shape means STOP. 962R561200 9
A rectangular white sign with red letters indicates that parking is restricted or prohibited. The red triangle means YIELD, because someone other than you has the right-of-way. A red circle with a slash often communicates the do not's - enter, turn, U- turn, pedestrians, or parking. 962R561200 10
WARNING Signs Several warning signs help drivers anticipate sharp turns or curves in the road. Usually diamond-shaped and yellow, warning signs caution drivers that the road is slippery when wet; there is an intersection ahead, the lanes narrow, or there may be bicyclists, farm animals, or wildlife on or near the roadway. The pentagon shape with the point to the top warns us to watch for school children. The new color for these signs - fluorescent yellowgreen - is much easier to see in low light and foggy/rainy weather. 962R561200 11
Pay attention to the round yellow WARNING sign - there's a railroad crossing ahead. Yellow pennant-shaped signs caution motorists where passing is unsafe. 962R561200 12
GUIDE Signs Square black and white markers specify U.S. routes and most State routes. The even/odd numbering system also applies to State routes. Some States design their own markers, which often reflect their individuality. Green GUIDE signs direct travelers to the right exit to cities, airports, park-and-ride stations, and other destinations. Green signs also mark bicycle routes. 962R561200 13
The green and white "mile markers" help us gauge how far we've driven, or how far we need to drive, through a state. The familiar red, white, and blue shield tells drivers they are traveling on an Interstate Highway. Even-numbered roads run east-west; north-south Interstates have odd numbers. 962R561200 14
MOTORIST SERVICE Signs Blue rectangle or square SERVICE signs are a welcome sight for travelers who need a break from the road. We look for these signs to help us find service stations, places to eat, rest areas, phones, and overnight facilities. The handicappedaccessible sign is one of the most inviting for disabled travelers. 962R561200 15
CONSTRUCTION Signs CONSTRUCTION signs are orange diamonds specifically used only to WARN drivers about construction and work zone activity. And don't forget to slow down and give road crews a 'brake'! 962R561200 16
Brown RECREATION signs Brown RECREATION signs direct us to areas of public recreation and cultural interest. In addition to swimming, skiing, boating, and fishing areas, these signs also direct us to the services in recreation areas, including first aid, post office, and food service. 962R561200 17