Supplemental In-Lane Pavement Markings

Image Source: Julian, F. Horizontal Signing, A Proven Low-Cost Horizontal Curve Safety Countermeasure.2024 TRB International Roadside Safety Conference presentation.

DEFINITION AND DESCRIPTION

Regulatory, warning, or guidance messages provided by signs may also be placed in the lane using elongated pavement markings. Messages such as the posted speed limit or Stop Ahead or Curve Ahead markings may supplement signs by providing the same information in the driver’s direct line of sight.

Implementation Categories

CONSIDERATIONS

• Due to their installation and maintenance costs, TO-504 limits the use of word markings to locations where there is a demonstrated need to provide motorists additional warning or guidance.
• Send location of supplemental in-lane pavement markings to Traffic Operation to be inventoried. 

APPLICATION

• May be installed where there is a difference between the posted speed and curve advisory speed, corridors where speed studies indicate excessive speeding, and in speed transition zones.
• Follow Section 3B.20 and 3B.21 of the MUTCD for implementation.
• With the exception of route marker symbols, horizontal signing placed on the pavement shall consist only of words and numbers
• Refer to the Pavement Markings Chapter of the Standard Highway Signs publication for installation of pavement marking letters and numerals. Letters and numerals should be 6 feet or more in height.

example

Image Source: FHWA

Complementary SSA Strategies

• Enhanced Signing
• Speed Reduction Markings
• Human Factors Guidance – Effectiveness of Symbolic Markings