Understanding Stop Signs on Both Sides of the Road: A Comprehensive Guide

Stop signs are an essential component of traffic control, designed to regulate the flow of vehicles and ensure safe intersections. Typically, these signs are placed on the side of the road where vehicles must yield or stop, usually facing the incoming traffic. However, it is not uncommon for stop signs to appear on both sides of a road, particularly in certain intersecting situations. This article delves into the reasons behind this, along with guidelines from the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).

Common Situations for Dual Stop Signs

While not all intersections feature stop signs on both sides, there are specific scenarios where such measures are implemented:

Two-way Intersections: In situations where both directions of traffic must stop, stop signs on both sides become necessary for safety. This is especially true when traffic from different directions needs to yield or stop. Multi-lane Roads: On divided roads or at T-intersections, stop signs are often placed on each side to regulate traffic flow. This helps vehicles from different directions yield properly. Pedestrian Crossings: To ensure the safety of pedestrians, stop signs may be installed on both sides of the road. This prompts drivers to stop and allow pedestrians to cross safely.

Guidelines from the MUTCD

The Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) provides specific criteria for when stop and yield signs should be used:

Conditions for Stop and Yield Signs

According to MUTCD, STOP or YIELD signs must be used if one or more of the following conditions apply:

An intersection between a less important (local) road and a main (collector or arterial) road where the normal right-of-way rule would not be followed. A street entering a designated through highway or street. An unsignalized intersection in a traffic signalized area. For two minor streets or local roads intersecting, with more than three approaches, and when one or more of the following conditions exist: Average vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic volume exceeding 2000 units per day per approach. Inadequate visibility for drivers to stop or yield in compliance with the normal right-of-way rule if such action is necessary. Crash records indicating five or more accidents resulting from the failure to yield the right-of-way within a 3-year period, or three or more within a 2-year period.

Placement Considerations

When deciding which direction to control with a stop or yield sign, transportation departments rely on engineering judgment. Generally, the direction with the lowest traffic volume is controlled first, unless justified by an engineering study. Other factors, such as pedestrian crossing activity, visibility issues, and sight distance, can influence this decision.

Prohibited Uses

STOP and YIELD signs should not be used for speed control, and they cannot be used in conjunction with traffic control signals except in specific cases. These include:

If the signal indication for an approach is a flashing red at all times. If a minor street or driveway is within or adjacent to the area controlled by the traffic signal and does not require separate traffic signal control due to an extremely low potential for conflict. If a channelized turn lane is separated from the adjacent travel lanes by an island and the channelized turn lane is not controlled by a traffic control signal.

Specific Revisions Permitted

While the MUTCD provides comprehensive guidelines, some transportation departments may make local modifications, such as adjusting signs or dimensions, based on specific local needs.

Practical Examples

Below are two examples illustrating the application of these principles:

Example 1: Chinden Blvd and 39th St

There is no signal control at this intersection. Both directions of traffic on 39th St would need to stop to prevent collisions with Chinden Blvd traffic. Placing a stop sign on only one side would be ineffective.

Example 2: Three-Leg Intersection

At a three-legged intersection, a stop sign may be placed in only one direction from a low-volume road, allowing free turns or lefts from the other directions.

For further clarification, consider the intersection of Commerce Avenue and Development Avenue. Commerce Avenue has a stop sign, but Development Avenue only has free turns.

These examples highlight the importance of consistency and safety when implementing traffic control signage.

Conclusion

While not all intersections feature stop signs on both sides, the presence of such signs in specific scenarios ensures the safety and proper regulation of traffic flow. By adhering to the guidelines provided in the MUTCD, transportation authorities can make informed decisions about the placement and use of stop and yield signs.