Traffic Control Principles Flashcards

What is the recommended minimum distance for advance warning signs on a highway with a posted speed of 65 mph?

Answer: 1,500 feet

On highways with 65 mph speeds, the California MUTCD recommends advance warning signs placed approximately 1,500 feet ahead of the work zone.

A flagger notices a large truck approaching too fast to stop safely. What is the BEST immediate action?

Answer: Move out of the travel lane immediately

Flaggers must prioritize their own safety; if a vehicle cannot stop safely, the flagger should move out of its path immediately.

Which traffic control device is used to guide drivers through a lane shift or taper?

Answer: Channelizing devices such as cones or drums

Channelizing devices like cones, drums, and barriers physically guide vehicles through lane shifts and tapers within the TTC zone.

What does a pilot car operation involve in a work zone?

Answer: A lead vehicle that guides traffic through the zone one direction at a time

A pilot car leads a controlled group of vehicles through a restricted work zone to ensure safe passage in one direction at a time.

Under California regulations, what color must a flagger's safety vest or garment be to meet minimum standards?

Answer: Fluorescent orange-red or fluorescent yellow-green

California requires flaggers to wear ANSI/ISEA Class 2 or higher apparel in fluorescent orange-red or fluorescent yellow-green with retroreflective material.

What is the purpose of a merge taper in a temporary traffic control zone?

Answer: To direct traffic from a closed lane into an open lane

A merge taper uses channelizing devices to guide vehicles from a closed lane into an adjacent open lane before the work area.

Which hand signal is used by a flagger to stop traffic when a STOP paddle is unavailable?

Answer: One arm extended outward with palm facing traffic

When a paddle is unavailable, a flagger extends one arm outward with the palm facing toward approaching traffic to signal STOP.