11/1-signs 'dangerous v A rb cytaaye
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THE SAFETY RECORD on Britain's motorways will deteriorate unless better emergency warning signs are provided, says the Royal Automobile Club.
The RAC feels that it is vitally important that reliable messages are transmitted to drivers more quickly in emergencies.
In a letter to Transport Under Secretary Lynda Chalker, the RAC said that on Britain's motorways no information is given to drivers to explain the reasons why advisory speed limits are imposed.
"Difficulties are also caused by the long distance between warning signs and also failure to ensure that the messages displayed are removed as soon as they are no longer required," the RAC said. "As a result, many drivers disregard the advice which is given."
Tony Lee, RAC director of public affairs, said in the letter that lessons could be learned from a computer-controlled traffic sign experiment in the Netherlands where information is provided within 20 seconds of hold-ups occurring.
After a study visit to examine a section of motorway between The Hague and Rotterdan-i Mr Lee said improvements could be made to the British motorway network along the same lines.
He said that the main British contribution to advance warning signs is the use and development of matrix signs mounted on overhead gantries Nhich warn of hazards ahead.
The RAC wants a rapid Government decision about future plans to improve the existing system in this country.