Roadway safety is of the utmost importance, and that’s why highway impact attenuation devices are so crucial. These devices help protect both drivers and passengers in the event of an accident by reducing the force of impact.
Here at Florida Roadway Guardrail & Signs, Inc., we offer a wide selection of highway impact attenuators to choose from. We also provide reliable service and installation, so you can rest assured that we will install your attenuator correctly and safely.
Keep scrolling to learn more!
What Are Highway Impact Attenuators?
Also known as crash cushions, highway impact attenuators are devices designed to absorb the force of impact in the event of a collision. These devices are usually installed at the end of guardrails. They help reduce the risk of severe injury or death by absorbing some of the impact force.
There are several different types of these attenuation devices, and each one is designed for a specific purpose. Some primary types of highway impact attenuators include:
- Trailer-mounted attenuators
- Truck-mounted attenuators
- Freestanding impact attenuators (sand barrels)
Why Use Highway Impact Attenuators?
You might wonder: “Aren’t speed limits and traffic signs enough?” While these are undoubtedly important, they cannot prevent all accidents. Even experienced drivers can make mistakes sometimes. That’s why highway impact attenuators are so important – they provide an extra level of safety for motorists and passengers alike.
Highway impact attenuation devices are very effective in reducing the severity of accidents. The aim behind them is to absorb the impact of a collision so that the vehicle occupants are not injured as severely.
What Makes Them Impact Attenuators?
What’s so special about them? Well, that answer lies in their design. There are 3 main types of the attenuator function process, all of which are based on the engineering method to reduce the kinetic energy of a colliding vehicle:
- Momentum transfer: Here, the impacting vehicle’s momentum is successfully transferred to sand and water containers. This process rules out a top-speed collision with the stationary vehicle or object.
- Friction: A steel cable is pushed out in front of the impacting vehicle, and as it does so, it rubs against the pavement, creating friction. This friction slows down the automobile.
- Material deformation: This process uses crushable materials, such as different types of foam, which means the attenuator deforms on impact. This crumple zone absorbs some kinetic energy. Another method under the same name flattens a section of a corrugated steel guardrail.
How to Choose the Best Impact Attenuator
With so many options out before you, picking the best attenuator for your needs can be challenging. Here are a few factors you can take into account:
- The severity of the impact
- The speed of the impacting vehicle
- The type of terrain or surface
- Any weather conditions that may be present
Conclusion
That was our brief guide to highway impact attenuators for you. If you’re still unsure of what to choose or need a reliable and experienced team to install your attenuators for you, Florida Roadway Guardrail & Signs, Inc. can help. We have several years of experience and are committed to providing our clients with quality products and services in Clewiston, FL.
