Evaluation of Overhead-Mounted Sign Alternatives for Lane Use and Destination Information on Multilane Conventional Roads

Abstract

The essential elements of signs with lane use and destination information combined were evaluated to determine the element or combination of elements best comprehended by road users. The sign elements in this study were evaluated only for overhead-mounted guide signs on approaches to multilane conventional intersections. The research team identified existing standards in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) for similar signs or related sign elements that might already have been applied by states to communicate lane use and destination information combined. The team also identified any elements that might have been relevant but were not yet included in MUTCD. This information was used to select the following variables for use in combination on signs with lane use and destination information: lane designation, construction type, destination direction, arrow type, and vertical separator lines. Combinations of these variables were then used to develop 18 experimental signs. Most alternatives were well understood by the research participants. Signs with single-lane designations were understood significantly better than signs with shared-lane designations. The study shows that when overhead-mounted guide signs with lane use and destination information combined are designed for approaches to multilane conventional road intersections, the amount of information and sign complexity must be kept low, especially for signs with information on shared lanes, in which information for multiple shared lanes can be confusing to drivers. The study shows no difference in comprehension on the basis of the use of vertical separator lines, arrow type, or construction type; however, in some situations these designs can quickly become complex.