The Stop Sign: Specifications, Standardization and Compliance
Stop signs are used worldwide as a method of informing drivers of any vehicle that the vehicle must stop prior to proceeding forward. Stop signs are most common in the United States at local intersections that do not have heavy traffic. Intersections seeing heavy traffic most frequently make use of traffic lights.
Stop Sign Specifications
The current stop sign design was first developed and put into use in the United States before being adopted by several other countries. When the Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals took place, standard measurements were proposed for stop signs. These measures range from 0.6 to 1.2 meters in countries other than the U.S. and vary depending upon the location of the sign and the speed of traffic in the area. In the United States, the standard measurements for stop signs are 75 cm in length across the
flats and the sign is red and octagonal in shape. The border is 20 mm thick and white, as is the lettering, which is 25 cm tall and centered on the sign.
Smaller and larger signs do exist. The smaller signs are 60 cm in diameter, while the larger signs are 90 cm in diameter. However, there are also provisions for even larger signs. The largest is 120 cm with the word "STOP" measuring 40 cm. In other countries, of course, stop signs may be outfitted with the language of the country instead of the English word.
Stop Sign Standardization and Placement
Stop signs are in use worldwide; however, they are most frequently used in North America as well as South Africa. This is due to the fact that four-way stops, also considered all-way stops, are uncommon in other countries. In fact, these types of stops are actually prohibited in several countries. Yet, in North America, stop signs are used to control traffic at intersections that do not see enough traffic to warrant traffic signal installation.
Stop signs are also frequently placed near schools, churches, playgrounds and shopping areas in an effort to slow motorists and allow pedestrians to cross. The signs are considered safety measures; however, the actual safety factor is questioned by other countries that believe yield signs are more appropriate, as based on European research.
Research on Stop Signs
There are several studies that have been conducted to review the true safety of stop signs and weigh the pros and cons. Stop signs present at multi-way intersections have been proven to increase motorists' speed as they leave the intersection, especially when the sign is thought of as unnecessary. Other issues associated with stop signs have been shown as well. These include: poor stop compliance, pollution, liability issues, vehicle emissions increase, added fuel consumption, traffic noise, longer travel times and increased operating costs for motorists.
Stop Sign Compliance
The laws in each country determine how motorists are to comply when faced with a stop sign. The United States sets these rules at a state level; however, all countries require drivers to bring their vehicles to a complete stop when arriving at a stop sign, regardless of whether or not a pedestrian or other vehicle is present.
This article is brought to you by the Hanford car accident attorneys. The Hanford car accident attorneys at JD Law Group have settled millions of dollars worth of accident claims and can refer you to the highest rated car accident firms anywhere in the United States in order to maximize your settlement. Call them today at 1-888-736- 4248 for a free consultation.
DISCLAIMER: The information provided on this website or the web site linked here in are not a substitute for professional medical or legal advice, diagnosis or treatment. In addition, viewing the content on these websites, requesting additional information, or transmitting information through a contact form does not form an attorney-client relationship with the sponsoring attorney. Any results set forth herein are based upon the facts of that particular case or scientific study and do not represent a promise or guaranty regarding similar outcome or causes. The information on this site is intended for educational purposes only and should never interfere with a patient/site visitor and his or her healthcare provider. Internet subscribers or online readers should not act upon any information contained herein without seeking professional legal and/or medical advice. This firm is licensed to practice law only in the state of California, but is affiliated with a network of licensed attorneys in other states. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. PersonalInjury.org and JD Law Group make no representation or warranty regarding the accuracy, reliability, completeness, currentness, or timeliness of the content, text or graphics. Links to other sites are provided for information only — they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites.
Stop Sign Specifications
The current stop sign design was first developed and put into use in the United States before being adopted by several other countries. When the Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals took place, standard measurements were proposed for stop signs. These measures range from 0.6 to 1.2 meters in countries other than the U.S. and vary depending upon the location of the sign and the speed of traffic in the area. In the United States, the standard measurements for stop signs are 75 cm in length across the
flats and the sign is red and octagonal in shape. The border is 20 mm thick and white, as is the lettering, which is 25 cm tall and centered on the sign.
Smaller and larger signs do exist. The smaller signs are 60 cm in diameter, while the larger signs are 90 cm in diameter. However, there are also provisions for even larger signs. The largest is 120 cm with the word "STOP" measuring 40 cm. In other countries, of course, stop signs may be outfitted with the language of the country instead of the English word.
Stop Sign Standardization and Placement
Stop signs are in use worldwide; however, they are most frequently used in North America as well as South Africa. This is due to the fact that four-way stops, also considered all-way stops, are uncommon in other countries. In fact, these types of stops are actually prohibited in several countries. Yet, in North America, stop signs are used to control traffic at intersections that do not see enough traffic to warrant traffic signal installation.
Stop signs are also frequently placed near schools, churches, playgrounds and shopping areas in an effort to slow motorists and allow pedestrians to cross. The signs are considered safety measures; however, the actual safety factor is questioned by other countries that believe yield signs are more appropriate, as based on European research.
Research on Stop Signs
There are several studies that have been conducted to review the true safety of stop signs and weigh the pros and cons. Stop signs present at multi-way intersections have been proven to increase motorists' speed as they leave the intersection, especially when the sign is thought of as unnecessary. Other issues associated with stop signs have been shown as well. These include: poor stop compliance, pollution, liability issues, vehicle emissions increase, added fuel consumption, traffic noise, longer travel times and increased operating costs for motorists.
Stop Sign Compliance
The laws in each country determine how motorists are to comply when faced with a stop sign. The United States sets these rules at a state level; however, all countries require drivers to bring their vehicles to a complete stop when arriving at a stop sign, regardless of whether or not a pedestrian or other vehicle is present.
This article is brought to you by the Hanford car accident attorneys. The Hanford car accident attorneys at JD Law Group have settled millions of dollars worth of accident claims and can refer you to the highest rated car accident firms anywhere in the United States in order to maximize your settlement. Call them today at 1-888-736- 4248 for a free consultation.
DISCLAIMER: The information provided on this website or the web site linked here in are not a substitute for professional medical or legal advice, diagnosis or treatment. In addition, viewing the content on these websites, requesting additional information, or transmitting information through a contact form does not form an attorney-client relationship with the sponsoring attorney. Any results set forth herein are based upon the facts of that particular case or scientific study and do not represent a promise or guaranty regarding similar outcome or causes. The information on this site is intended for educational purposes only and should never interfere with a patient/site visitor and his or her healthcare provider. Internet subscribers or online readers should not act upon any information contained herein without seeking professional legal and/or medical advice. This firm is licensed to practice law only in the state of California, but is affiliated with a network of licensed attorneys in other states. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. PersonalInjury.org and JD Law Group make no representation or warranty regarding the accuracy, reliability, completeness, currentness, or timeliness of the content, text or graphics. Links to other sites are provided for information only — they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites.