PennDOT Explains New "+" Markings on Roadways

As part of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation District 11-0's ongoing commitment to improve traffic safety, new pavement markings are being installed to warn motorists of curves and non-signalized intersections.

PennDOT said it has expanded its pavement marking program because it is effective at improving safety and is low-cost.

Some of these markings will be unfamiliar to drivers in western Pennsylvania.

New pavement markings are being placed prior to selected intersections to caution motorists. When approaching these intersections, drivers will encounter several road markings. First, motorists will see a "SLOW" marking painted on the roadway followed closely by a "+" marking. Depending on the posted speed limit, a second "+" marking will be placed 45 to 265 feet before an intersection. However, a "+" marking does not indicate a stop ahead, as this marking can be used on through lanes. Intersection warning signs might also be used to alert motorists.

The "SLOW" marking also is used to signify a curve in the roadway ahead. An arrow will follow the "SLOW" marking to indicate the direction of the curve. These markings are often used with advanced, oversized warning signs. Drivers are urged to use caution when encountering these pavement markings.

More than 550 pavement markings have been placed in Allegheny, Beaver and Lawrence counties since 2002.

Based upon research findings, PennDOT estimates that the implementation of sign and marking improvements can reduce crashes by 25 percent at an average intersection or curve. 

The implementation of cost-effective safety improvements is a key component in PennDOT's highway safety vision. PennDOT District 11-0 will invest nearly $1 million in low-cost safety improvements to enhance motorist safety in 2011.

Additional low-cost safety improvements include the installation of cable median barriers, removal of vegetation for better sight lines, pedestrian-channelizing devices and center and edgeline rumble strips.

Visit DriveSafePA.org to learn more about PennDOT's safety initiatives.