Multi-Way Stop Signs Do Not Control Speed

The Port Orange, Florida city council unanimously approved the recommendation to install a three-way stop sign based on the results of a recent traffic-calming study. This study was conducted in response to complaints about drivers exceeding 60 mph on a roadway where the posted speed limit is 25 mph. The study’s final recommendations included adding more speed limit signs, erecting the three-way stop sign, and installing crosswalks.

The Council decided to add the signage and three-way stop sign and revisit the issue in six to eight months to see if the crosswalks are still needed. The crosswalk construction is expected to cost up to $30,000.

Interestingly, the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) published a study on the impact of multi-way stop signs on speeding.  The report states, “overwhelmingly, multi-way stop signs do NOT control speed except under very limited conditions.” On the other hand, driver feedback signs have been scientifically proven to result in a lasting reduction in motorist speed. Equally important to today’s cash-strapped city councils, these products are extremely budget-friendly, with low start-up costs and none of the upkeep and maintenance costs required by construction-based solutions.

Charlie Robeson: Radarsign™ Co-founder & Director of Sales and Marketing