Traffic Safety Evaluation of Signalized Intersections with Retroreflective Backplates in Minnesota Status: CompleteReport Date: 01/31/2024 Summary: Between 2016 and 2021, MnDOT installed retroreflective signal backplate borders at 116 signalized intersections in Minnesota. Retroreflective signal backplate borders are intended to further increase visibility of the signal head during both the day and night. The goal of installing retroreflectivity to backplates is to reduce crashes at the intersection by drawing more attention to the current phase of the signal. Backplates with retroreflective borders are listed as Federal Highway Administration Proven Safety Countermeasure with a listed safety benefit of a 15% reduction in total crashes. With the installation of retroreflective signal backplates on MnDOT signals, the changes in crash rates were not found to be statistically significantly different from similar locations that did not have retroreflective signal backplates. These results indicate there was little impact on crash rates in the few years after the installation of retroreflective signal backplates. Final Deliverables: Traffic Safety Evaluation of Signalized Intersections with Retroreflective Backplates in Minnesota (Report #2024-04) Related Materials: Related Research:
