Approximately 36% of the deaths and injuries on our highways result from single vehicle accidents. These accidents involve vehicles running off the road, overturning, or striking some fixed object such as bridge piers, retaining walls and abutments, sign posts, lightpoles, trees, guardrails, utility poles, etc. This paper discusses some of the features of our roadways which present hazards to the motor vehicle which inadvertently leaves the pavement Various alternatives or options which are now available for reducing accident losses are discussed. Recent developments such as the breakaway sign post, lightpole, and vehicle impact attenuation devices are discussed. Suggestions for reducing the hazards of various other roadside features are also presented.
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