Traffic control

Overview

The concept of traffic control is complex because highway traffic control measures must take into account traffic volumes, vehicles, driving styles, population density, speed limits, and many other factors. The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (published by the Federal Highway Administration) states the standards which apply to the usage of traffic control equipment, and the Oregon Temporary Traffic Control Handbook for Operations of Three Days or Less covers short-term activities.

Controlling traffic through work zones is a serious safety concern for both drivers and workers; in fact, there are far more drivers and their passengers killed and injured in roadway work zones than workers. An inattentive driver is the most common cause for work zone crashes.