Traffic Signal & Signage Installation Flashcards

What is the minimum recommended luminance ratio between a traffic signal lens and its background during daylight?

Answer: 10:1

A luminance ratio of at least 10:1 between the lit signal lens and its background is recommended to ensure adequate daytime visibility.

A KDOT inspector observes that a newly installed overhead sign is tilted 8 degrees from vertical. What is the appropriate action?

Answer: Document and require correction before final acceptance

Signs must be installed plumb and level per specifications; deviations must be corrected before the inspector approves final acceptance.

What is 'signal coordination' in the context of arterial traffic signal systems?

Answer: Linking signal controllers so vehicles traveling at a designated speed can encounter progressive green lights

Signal coordination times green phases on a corridor so vehicles traveling at the design speed experience a 'green wave,' improving arterial flow and reducing stops.

Which MUTCD sign color combination is used for temporary traffic control (work zone) signs?

Answer: Black on orange

Temporary traffic control signs in work zones use black text and symbols on an orange background, distinguishing them from permanent signs.

When setting signal timing, what does 'minimum green' refer to?

Answer: The shortest time the signal will remain green to allow stopped vehicles to begin moving

Minimum green is the shortest duration the controller will allow a green indication before yielding to a competing call, ensuring queued vehicles can begin moving.

What is the purpose of a 'conflict monitor' (also called a malfunction management unit) in a traffic signal cabinet?

Answer: To detect contradictory or unsafe signal indications and force the system to safe flash mode

The conflict monitor continuously checks for illegal simultaneous green indications or other faults and places the intersection in flash mode if detected.

According to MUTCD, what is the correct lateral placement for a standard roadside sign post installed adjacent to a curbed urban street?

Answer: 2 to 6 feet behind the face of the curb

MUTCD recommends sign posts on curbed roadways be placed 2 to 6 feet behind the face of curb to provide clearance while keeping signs visible.