Wednesday, January 27, 2010

The Purpose Of The Traffic Management Plans

By Dennis Dandolo

The fact of the matter is that almost all the roads worldwide deal with different kinds of traffic everyday. The traffic in question may range from just a light peppering of such here and there to heavy congestion in a specific area. The truth is, everybody hates to be caught in any kind of traffic. It is a real mood killer and can frustrate even the most patient driver behind the wheel.

This is why it is really important for the agency that deals with traffic control to have a very effective traffic management plan. That way, the traffic will lessen or abate. Not to mention the lessening of bad accidents that are related to the traffic.

Making use of a traffic management plan makes it possible for traffic agencies to have the right means to push through with any traffic solution that will surely benefit everybody. These solutions comprise of such events as all road works like road asphalting and line marking; repair and construction; sports events such as cycling and running marathons; in addition to major and minor events such as parades, street or block parties and festivals.

The critical objective of an effective traffic management plan is safety at all times, not only for the motorists but also those who are involved in any of the activities mentioned above. It also aims to ensure that there is only the slightest disturbance to any of the involved parties who use or are working on the roads.

The traffic controllers who implement a traffic management plan should make it a priority to walk or drive through the work zone or road on a regular basis in order to check if the traffic management plan is working. This might also mean constantly adjusting or double checking the lane widths, making sure that all the traffic cones are visible, upright and aligned properly so the motorists can clearly follow the proper lane and also that all warning signs and devices are checked for the most advantageous placement and are visible at all times.

Most importantly, these traffic management agencies should utilize all the resources, equipment, vehicles and manpower that is afforded them at all times, particularly in the event of an emergency. Doing so ensures minimal assembly time so that they can get to an accident area immediately. The manpower should comprise of highly trained people to be able to lessen the dangers and possible injuries that a motorist will face. That being said, all the resources should be kept in tiptop shape and that each member of the team be the best qualified for the job at hand.

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