Transverse Rumble Strips

Many studies on traffic calming look at the effectiveness of different techniques in reducing speeds on city streets, but there is less information available about the application of traffic calming to reduce speeds on high-speed rural roadways. This synthesis examines national and international research that relates to the application of traffic calming on high-speed rural roadways. The Federal Highway Administration(FHWA) defines rumble strips “as raised or grooved patterns on the roadway shoulder that provide both an audible warning (rumbling sound) and a physical vibration to alert drivers that they are leaving the lane.” Cities and counties may use rumble strips as means of enhancing safety to help warn motorists to slow down in anticipation of a stop sign or to help warn motorists that they are leaving the roadway or crossing the centerline.