Speed Feedback Indicator Signs

Purpose sfi1.png

Manage driver speeds for the safety of all road users by informing the driver of their current speed in comparison to the speed limit.

Description

Speed feedback indicator signs are traffic control devices that have a speed-measuring device and a messaging sign that displays feedback to drivers, with additional feedback information for drivers going above the posted speed. For example, the numbers may flash on the screen if the driver’s speed is faster than the speed limit. In this way, the speed feedback indicator sign interacts with the driver, which can lead to higher speed limit compliance. 

Safety Benefits

  • Increase driver awareness of the posted speed limit and their own speed.
  • Reduce occurrence and severity of all crashes.

Street Types and Context

Applicable Street Types

Applicable on arterials and Local Principal streets.

Other Location Guidance 

Speed feedback signs are deployed in areas with a history of speeding confirmed through a speed data collection effort.

Primary User Groups

Vehicles include cars, buses, motorcyclists, and large trucks.

Key Implementation Considerations

  • All speed signage must meet federal standards.
  • Signs are typically placed adjacent to the roadway but may also be placed in medians if there is no space on the right side of the roadway.

     

Expected Crash Reduction

5% for all crashes. Data analyzed in Arlington shows a reduction in speed.

Cost

Medium costs.

Cost for permanent speed feedback indicator signs is typically in the moderate range. Arlington also deploys battery-powered portable speed feedback signs that may be used for short term speed mitigation or speed studies.

Timeline

One to two years.

One to three years.

Application in Arlington

Visit Vision Zero Program Dashboard: SFIS to see where this tool has been implemented.

Vision Zero Dashboard

References

 

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