Highways always have opposing sides of traffic. However, not all highways have traffic on a single road. In many cases, the route is separated by a physical barrier. This barrier can be a strip of land, a concrete median or wall, railroad tracks, or something else.

In these instances, drivers need to be aware of the division for several reasons.

• First, drivers need to know that they don’t have to worry as much about oncoming traffic.
• Second, they must understand that there is a barrier, making left turns and U-turns more challenging. Sometimes, drivers may have to go past their turn and flip around.
• Finally, in some cases, the barrier may be part of a temporary traffic control situation. For example, perhaps construction crews are renovating a section of the highway, and new lanes must be created until the project is finished.

Why are Divided Highway Signs Important?

Typically, divided highway signs are posted at the beginning of the barrier so that drivers know to avoid hitting it. The signs can also be highly valuable at intersections or turning points so that drivers don’t assume they can cross the highway anywhere and be okay.

For example, U-turn accidents occur about 4,300 times per year. While it’s unclear how many of these incidents involve a divided highway, it’s possible that drivers are attempting to turn without realizing there’s a median or barrier in the way.

These signs can also help direct traffic flow, particularly if there’s a substantial division. In some cases, the highway may be undivided and then split in two suddenly. Under those circumstances, drivers must be aware of the shift before it happens, so they’re not caught off-guard.

Types of Divided Highway Signs

There are two primary options for a divided highway sign. In both cases, the sign itself is diamond-shaped with a yellow background and black lettering. In temporary traffic control (TTC) situations, these signs are orange to signify that the division is temporary.

The first type of divided highway sign has two curved arrows pointing in opposite directions. In the center is a slight arch representing the barrier or median between lanes.

The second sign option is a standard diamond with the words “Divided Highway (or road)” written across it. If there’s a railroad track between each side of the highway, the sign is often rectangular with a white background instead. This sign may also show the railroad tracks to illustrate the point further.

When picking your divided highway sign, the material you choose matters. Here’s a quick rundown of the options you can select:

• Hi-Intensity Reflective Aluminum – If the divided highway has busy intersections, you need a sign that’s easy to see, especially in low-light conditions. Hi-intensity aluminum works well for all situations because it reflects much more light.
• Diamond Grade Reflective Aluminum – We recommend this material if an intersection has a high collision or mortality rate. Diamond-grade aluminum is the best option and lasts the longest. However, it also costs the most, so you must plan accordingly.

Where to Place Divided Highway Signs

These signs should be placed at the beginning of the highway division and at each intersection along the divided highway. For rural areas where there’s less traffic, cities and counties may only place these signs in areas with high driver numbers.

If the divided highway is temporary, signs may be necessary along the corridor to remind drivers of the temporary barrier.

The WorkSafe TCI Difference

Even though divided highway signs are not as vital as other signs, they play a crucial role in traffic safety. So, you need to make sure to work with a reputable company with tons of experience, fast turnaround times, and MUTCD-compliant results. Fortunately, WorkSafe TCI checks off all the boxes, so you can feel confident your signs will pass muster. Contact us today to find out more.

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