Evaluation of Alternative Traffic Signs for Use in Texas Border Areas (1274-3)

A three-year research project evaluated driver understanding of traffic control devices in Texas border areas. The report describes the activities and findings of the third and final year of the research study. In the third year, two surveys were conducted in both border and non-border locations. The passenger car driver survey addressed the Stop for School Bus, Fasten Safety Belts, and Right Lane Ends signs, plus the sign shape/color code. Spanish-language alternative legends were developed for each standard sign. A total of 1,344 passenger car drivers took part in the survey. The truck driver survey addressed the Weigh Station, Weight Limit, Load Zoned Bridge, and Hazardous Cargo signs, plus the sign shape/color code. Spanish-language alternative legends were developed for each of the word message signs. A total of 525 truck drivers took part in the survey. The results indicated that, in general, the overall comprehension levels for the selected word message signs were improved in the Texas border area through the use of Spanish-legend signs. The research recommends specific Spanish-legend signs that can be used to supplement the Fasten Safety Belts, Right Lane Ends, Weigh Station, Weight Limit, and Load Zoned Bridge signs.