Citation

Roberts KM, Klipple AG. Transp. Res. Rec. 1976; 600: 42-44.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1976, Transportation Research Board, National Research Council, National Academy of Sciences USA, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

In general, the data indicate that the selection of exit panels for special applications should be influenced by the type of sign selected (diagrammatic or conventional) and the direction in which the exit diverges from the roadway (EXIT ONLY panels are superior to MUST EXIT panels at left exits). Based on the research to date, it seems clear that exit panels significantly improve the correctness of driver expectations of freeway interchange geometrics in terms of lane drop configurations. Of all messages tested, the MUST EXIT and EXIT ONLY panels were the most helpful in correctly influencing expectations. The difference in efficiency of these messages seems small, and probably either one could be adopted. In the interest of improving the accuracy of driver expectancies, it would seen that only one exit panel message should be used. Diagrammatic signs appear to have influenced expectancies favorably, but the cost factors associated with installing this type of sign where conventional signs now exist may make their use prohibitive in the near future. Exit panels affixed to existing conventional signs may offer a sufficient short-term solution.