Convert Low-Volume Intersections from Two-Way Stop Control to All-Way Stop Control

DEFINITION AND DESCRIPTION

All-way stop control (AWSC) is implemented by placing stop signs on each leg of an intersection. It is a quick, cost-effective method for alleviating crash problems at intersections with high-severity impact crashes. North Carolina DOT converted 50 intersections from two-way stop control (TWSC) to AWSC and saw a 77% reduction in fatal and injury crashes at the treated intersections. 

Implementation Categories

Area(s) HSIP, Traffic Operations, Operations & Maintenance
Safety Category 2

CONSIDERATIONS

  • In general, when the AADT of each road is 4,000, the intersection with AWSC is expected to operate at an acceptable level of service (NC DOT).
  • Consider including a NEW plaque (W16-15P) during the initial implementation.
  • Consider installing advanced Stop Ahead signs or pavement messages.
  • Conduct public outreach to let users know changes in traffic control are forthcoming.

APPLICATION

  • Evaluate current AADT, intersection control, sight distance, and crash history to identify locations where AWSC would be appropriate.  Consult Section 2B.12 of the MUTCD, 11ᵗʰ Edition for more information.

example

Complementary SSA Strategies

REFERENCES AND RESOURCES

All Way Stop Control. NCDOT Traffic Safety Unit Programs. https://deldot.gov/Programs/DSHSP/pdfs/Emphasis-Areas/intersections/AWSC%20Research%20Memo%20with%20Appendices.pdf https://connect.ncdot.gov/resources/safety/TrafficSafetyResources/All%20Way%20Stop%20Summary%20Brief.pdf

Federal Highway Administration. Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways (MUTCD) Chapter 2B, Federal Highway Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington DC, 2023.  https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/kno_11th_Edition.htm

Gross, F., Jagannathan, R., Persaud, B., Lyon, C., Eccles, K., Lefler, N., & Amjadi, R. (2008, March). Safety evaluation of STOP AHEAD pavement markings (Report No. FHWA-HRT-08-043). U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration. https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/publications/research/safety/08043/index.cfm

Lehnert, N., LaGransd, S. Crash Trends at New All-Way Stop Control (AWSC) Locations – Memorandum. 2024, June 5. https://deldot.gov/Programs/DSHSP/pdfs/Emphasis-Areas/intersections/AWSC%20Research%20Memo%20with%20Appendices.pdf

CONTACT:

Jill Asher

Research Engineer 

jill.asher@uky.edu