Roadside Safety Hardware

Roadway departure (RwD) crashes account for more than 50% of all motor vehicle traffic fatalities. Over the past few decades, different engineering countermeasures have been proposed, implemented and tested by various state and local agencies to mitigate RwD crashes. Improving median or roadside barrier design is one of the most effective countermeasures available to reduce RwD fatal crashes.

These devices suffered damage to their reputation as life savers because of some isolated unfortunate incidents, however the safety benefits beyond any doubt have been proven by numerous research studies. At this juncture, the life-saving qualities of roadside guardrails and median barriers need to be underscored.

ATSSA has a committee dedicated to the advancement of guardrails. The Guardrail Committee (member login required) works to preserve funding through the Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP), a federal program which dedicates funds to infrastructure safety. The committee also promotes a fully funded Highway Trust Fund (HTF) and other funding opportunities. It works with ATSSA chapters and members to develop and deliver government relations services at the state level, encourages members to utilize these services and educates the administration on roadway safety infrastructure.