Driver feedback signs are the latest innovation in traffic calming systems. Here’s how they work:

Driver Feedback Traffic Sign

The radar driver feedback sign clearly shows the area speed limit. Below this the driving speed of the oncoming vehicle is displayed in the YOUR SPEED box. So, for example, in a 25 mph speed zone the driver who is informed that he or she is doing 39 is reminded in a high impact way that slowing down is necessary.

Driver feedback signs, or radar signs, use the latest technology to gauge vehicle speed and the display signs are clear enough to be understood by motorists without causing visual obstructions or being obtrusive in the given driving environment.

Statistics reveal that drivers respond to radar feedback signs – in 80 cases out of 100 motorists slowed down when alerted to their error the sign’s flashing LED display. The results are highly rewarding – drivers cut their speed by 10% – 20%. Studies show average speeds drop 35 MPH and the percentage of drivers who obey the speed limit increase by 30-60% when driver feedback signs are used. This makes for far safer roads and it’s also a cost effective means of traffic control that eliminates the need for more expensive resources such as ‘on site’ traffic policing.

As far as flexibility goes radar speed signs can be set to function to a specified schedule. For instance, in school areas where it may not be necessary to issue speed cautions outside of school hours, the radar sign can be set to off mode, and be programmed to become fully functional again when it is needed most. However, even when radar feedback signs are on off mode, information about traffic behaviors can still be collected in their database.

Question: So what’s the psychology behind the effectiveness of radar feedback signs? Why are they more effective than simple static speed limit reminder signs?

Answer: It’s probably fair to say that most experienced drivers are fairly relaxed when driving and, rightly or wrongly, are so used to seeing printed speed limit signs that they no longer have the high impact that they should. Radar feedback signs issue flashing LED displays that informs the driver of his or her current speed alongside notification of the legal speed limit of the area. The flashing LED has the effect of altering the driver’s brain state from the relaxed but aware alpha mode into the more alert and attentive beta state. So, radar feedback signs work to trigger changes in the brain’s physiognomy rather than in a psychological way. Having said that, there are psychological aspects – many drivers when reminded by radar speed signs that they need to correct their behavior do so because they feel momentarily aware of having driven carelessly. And the message is a direct one that speaks straight to the driver – YOUR SPEED means you, that’s how fast you’re driving. It’s simple but potent stuff.

As a traffic-calming tool, radar speed signs are proven to be popular and highly effectual.