TRAFFIC SAFETY

Southland Times, Issue 23381, 13 December 1937, Page 10

TRAFFIC SAFETY

NEED FOR WIDER ROADS IN AMERICA The record of traffic accidents in California shows that the percentage of overtaking accidents is in excess of the approaching type of accident, and the probable explanation is given that cars swing wide out for vision and clearance in passing such vehicles as buses and lorries, and trailer combinations. The conclusion is reached that the 10-foot traffic lane is no longer adequate for modern high-speed traffic. The Californian division of highways has accordingly adopted a new standard of construction providing for an increased width of lane, to a basic 11 feet, making the two-lane roadway 22 feet wide instead of 20 feet. The standard 11 feet applies also to threeto provide for future expansion into four-lane highways. The multiple lane highway of four lanes or more will be divided highway providing for two roadways in each direction, with a dividing or separating strip between them. The standard of construction adopted for these roads is a 12-foot width of lane inside and 11 feet for the outside, the 12 feet inside providing more freedom while passing and greater freedom in case of crowding. A minimum width of four feet has been adopted for the separation strips on the divided reading to ensure adequate clearance for tbe vehicles travelling in opposite directions.