What is the minimum taper length distance for a speed of 55 MPH with a 12' lane width?

Prepare for the ATSSA Traffic Control Supervisor Test. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, with hints and detailed explanations for each question. Ace your exam!

To determine the minimum taper length required for a traffic control setup at a speed of 55 MPH with a 12-foot lane width, it's essential to refer to the guidelines set forth by traffic control standards, such as those from the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) or similar regulatory sources.

The formula for calculating taper length often considers the speed of the traffic and the width of the lane. For a speed of 55 MPH, the generally accepted rule is to use a multiple of the lane width and speed to establish taper distance. Specifically, a common guideline is that the taper length in feet can be estimated with the formula:

Taper Length = (Speed x Lane Width) / 60.

In our scenario:

  • Speed = 55 MPH

  • Lane Width = 12 feet

Applying the information:

Taper Length = (55 x 12) / 60 = 11 feet per MPH.

When you calculate it out, you get 660 feet. This length allows for vehicles to safely merge from the highway traffic flow into the taper area, providing enough distance for drivers to react and merge accordingly.

Thus, the correct answer, 660 feet, is validated through this taper calculation method, ensuring safety

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