Traffic Signal face

TRAFFIC SIGNAL FACE

Signal face is defined as defined as that part of a signal head provided for controlling traffic in a single direction. Turning indications may be included in a signal face. A signal face is one cluster of signal sections facing one traffic movement. A signal face has one set of red, yellow and green lamps. The signal face which is nearest to and facing the incoming traffic is called the primary signal face. A signal face showing the same indications as on a primary signal face, usually further away from the incoming traffic and on its off-side (Right) is known as secondary signal face.

• Traffic signals are control devices that alternately direct the traffic to stop and proceed at an intersection using red and green lights alternatively.
• The main requirements of traffic signals are
• to draw attention
• provide meaning and time to respond and\
• minimise wastage of time
• Traffic signals are required to
• Reduce delay
• Improve safety
• Help low volume roads
• Ensure orderly flow of traffic and
  
• Reduce the frequency of accidents
• Conflicting traffic movements make roadway intersections unsafe for vehicles and pedestrians
• Intersections are a major source of crashes and vehicle delay
• Traffic volumes and crash frequency/severity require installation of traffic signals

ADVANTAGES OF TRAFFIC SIGNALS

• Traffic signals ensure orderly movement of traffic in all directions
• Traffic signals provide a progressive flow of traffic in a signal-system corridor
• By virtue of traffic signals, side-street vehicles can safely enter the traffic stream
• Traffic signals enable pedestrians to cross the street safely
• Traffic signals have the potential to reduce accidents and ensure safety of all road users
• Traffic signals also ensure reduction in delays

DISADVANTAGES OF TRAFFIC SIGNALS

•  Delays due to large stop time
• Complex signal design problem
• Effects due to poorly-timed traffic signals
• Increased vehicle delay
• Increased rear-end vehicle crashes
• Disruption to traffic progression