chapter 8 - regulations - california department of ... · pdf file1-1996 traffic regulations...

STATE OF CALIFORNIABUSINESS AND TRANSPORTATION ANGENCY

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

8-00 Table of Contents andList of Figures

8-01 Basic Information

8-02 Parking

8-03 Speed Limits and Zones

8-04 Other Traffic Regulations

CHAPTER 8 - REGULATIONS

TRAFFIC MANUAL

January1996

Caltrans

etric

This Page Left Blank Intentionally

1-1996

TRAFFIC REGULATIONSTraffic Manual

CHAPTER 8TABLE OF CONTENTS

DateIndex No. Page No.

8-018-01.18-01.28-01.3

8-028-02.18-02.2

8-038-03.18-03.28-03.3

8-03.4

8-048-04.18-04.28-04.38-04.48-04.5

BASIC INFORMATION............................................................. 8-1General................................................................................... 8-1Local Regulations.................................................................. 8-1Investigation by District........................................................ 8-1

PARKING................................................................................... 8-2Parking Regulations.............................................................. 8-2Policy on Parking Restrictions.............................................. 8-2

SPEED LIMITS AND ZONES................................................... 8-4Introduction........................................................................... 8-4Basic Speed Limit Law......................................................... 8-4Establishment of Prima Facie and Maximum 70 MPH (112 km/h) Speed Zones..................................................... 8-4Speed Limit Signs and Markings.......................................... 8-15

OTHER TRAFFIC REGULATIONS......................................... 8-16Through Highways................................................................ 8-16One-Way Streets.................................................................... 8-16Turning Movements............................................................... 8-16Truck Routes and Size and Weight Limitations..................... 8-16Restrictions On Use of Freeways........................................... 8-17

October, 1974October, 1974October, 1974October, 1974

January, 1996January, 1996January, 1996


January, 1996January, 1996

January, 1996October, 1974October, 1974October, 1974January, 1996January, 1996

8-0.1

1-1996

TRAFFIC REGULATIONS Traffic Manual

CHAPTER 8LIST OF FIGURES

Figure No. Date


December, 1988December, 1988

8-1A8-1B8-28-38-4

Speed Zone Survey Sheet................................................................. 8-8Speed Zone Survey Sheet................................................................. 8-9Cumulative Speed Curve Sheet........................................................ 8-10Vehicle Speed Survey Sheet............................................................. 8-11Vehicle Speed Survey Sheet [For 40 MPH (64 km/h)and Below].. 8-12

Page No.

8-0.2

TRAFFIC REGULATIONSTraffic Manual1-1996

CHAPTER 8TRAFFIC REGULATIONS

Basic Information 8-01

8-01.1 General

Under California law, traffic regulations forState highways are established:

1. By statute.2. By the Department of Transportation with

formal order of the Director.3. By local authorities, by ordinance or

resolution, approved by the Department ofTransportation.

These regulations may cover:1. Parking.2. Speed zones.3. Through streets or highways.4. One-way streets.5. Turning movements.6. Truck routes, and size and weight limits.7. Restriction on use of freeways.8. Lane designation.9. Designation of freeway lanes for high

occupancy vehicles.10. Uniform traffic control devices.11. Roadway markings.12. Miscellaneous regulations.

8-01.2 Local Regulations

All ordinances and resolutions by localauthorities, requiring approval by the Departmentshall contain a clause providing that the ordinanceor resolution shall cease to be effective six monthsafter receipt by the local authorities of writtennotice of withdrawal of approval by the Departmentof Transportation.

Omnibus type or master ordinances such asmay be proposed by the League of CaliforniaCities should contain the following two clauses:

1. Any provision of this ordinance whichregulates traffic or delegates the regulationof traffic upon State highways in any wayfor which the approval of the Department ofTransportation is required by State law,shall cease to be operative six months afterreceipt by the City Council of written noticeof withdrawal of approval of the Departmentof Transportation.

2. Whenever this ordinance delegatesauthority to a city officer, or authorizesaction by the City Council to regulate trafficupon a State highway in any way which byState law requires the prior approval of theDepartment of Transportation, no suchofficer shall exercise such authority norshall such action by the City Council beeffective with respect to any State highwaywithout the prior approval in writing of theDepartment of Transportation when and tothe extent required by the Vehicle Code.

8-01.3 Investigation by District

Orders, ordinances and resolutions by localauthorities which require approval by theDepartment should be submitted in draft form bylocal authorities to the District Director ofTransportation. The District Director will make acomplete investigation of proposed regulations ina timely manner.

8-1

TRAFFIC REGULATIONS 1-1996

Traffic Manual8-2

Parking 8-02

8-02.1 Parking Regulations

Section 22520 of the Vehicle Code prohibitsthe stopping, parking or leaving of any vehicleupon a freeway which has full control of accessand no crossing at grade. Large type R26 or R45signs may be installed on such freeways to informtraffic of the prohibition. Since this regulation isin the Code, the signs may be posted without aDirector's order.

Parking on other State highways may berestricted or prohibited under Sections 22505 and22506 of the Vehicle Code. Section 22505(a)permits the Department to restrict parking underthe following conditions:

1. In areas where, in its opinion, stopping,standing, or parking increases the risk of anaccident to those using the highway or wherethe stopping, standing, or parking of vehicleswould unduly interfere with the freemovement of traffic thereon.

2. In areas within one-half mile (0.8 km) of theboundary of any unit of the state park systemwhich the Director of Conservation hasdetermined are unusually high fire hazardareas, upon notification of the Department ofTransportation of such determination by theDirector of Conservation.

3. In areas within one-half mile (0.8 km) of theboundary of any unit of the state park systemwhich the county health officer hasdetermined are areas where a substantialpublic health hazard would result if campingwere allowed, upon notification of theDepartment of Transportation of suchdetermination by the county health officer.

Parking may be restricted or prohibited by localauthorities by ordinance or resolution if suchordinance or resolution is first submitted to andapproved by the Department. Restrictions onState highways within incorporated cities are besteffected with the concurrence of the city. Thepreferred procedure is for the city to enact the

regulation. However, if the Department determinesthat any of the three conditions under VehicleCode Section 22505(a) are met, the Department isauthorized to post appropriate signs regulatingparking without the concurrence of local authoritiessince the Vehicle Code places the final decisionand responsibility on the Department.

The District Director of each transportationdistrict is authorized to issue orders prohibiting orrestricting the parking of vehicles on Statehighways. The District Director is also authorizedto approve ordinances or resolutions of localauthorities prohibiting or restricting parking onState highways.

Section 22506 of the Vehicle Code providesthat where all or some function of maintenance ofa State highway is delegated to a City, the authorityto regulate parking on that highway may also bedelegated to the City. The delegation ofmaintenance activities to local authorities is usuallyexercised under the authority of Streets andHighways Code Section 130. Under a proposal todelegate maintenance and parking regulationauthority under Vehicle Code Section 22506, theDepartment shall retain the authority to regulateparking under the three conditions specified inVehicle Code Section 22505(a) stated above. TheDistrict Director of Transportation is authorized tomake this delegation of authority.

Prohibitions or restrictions enacted by localauthorities under Sections 22506 or 22507 may beindicated by marking curbs as prescribed by Section21458 of the Vehicle Code.

8-02.2 Policy on Parking Restrictions

A. No Parking Permitted at Any Time. Parkingshould be prohibited at locations where theprohibition would reduce the risk of collisions orwhere parking would unduly interfere with themovement of traffic. Major factors that may beconsidered include:


1. Narrow roadway width.2. Restricted visibility at intersections for

pedestrian and vehicular traffic.3. Narrow shoulder width.4. Conversion of a parking lane to a through

lane or right-turn lane.B. Limited Time Parking. The Department

does not issue orders for limiting time parking.However, such restrictions may be initiated bylocal authorities and approved by the Department.Parking prohibitions between certain hours mayalso be initiated by local authorities. Before timelimit parking regulations are approved in ruralareas, assurance must be obtained from theenforcement agency that the regulation will beenforced.

C. Parking Meter Zones. Section 22508 of theVehicle Code provides that local authorities may,by ordinance, provide for the establishment ofparking meter zones and cause streets and highwaysto be marked with white lines designating parkingspaces. Where the proposed zones are on Statehighways, the ordinances must be approved by theDepartment of Transportation. The DistrictDirectors have been delegated the authority toapprove such ordinances.

Local authorities shall furnish a sketch or mapshowing the definite location of all parking meterstalls on State highways before departmentalapproval is given.

The desirable dimensions of parking meterstalls are 2.4 m •by 7.3 m with a minimum lengthof 6.1 m.

At all intersections, one stall length on eachside measured from the crosswalk or end of curbreturn shall have parking prohibited. A clearanceof 1.8 m •measured from the curb return shall beprovided at alleys and driveways. At signalizedintersections parking should be prohibited for aminimum of two stall lengths on the near side andone stall length on the far side (see Chapter 6,PARKING STALL MARKINGS).

The departmental approval for the installationof the parking meters shall be covered by anencroachment permit.

D. Angle Parking. Section 22503 of the VehicleCode permits local authorities by ordinance toestablish angle parking. However, the Departmentdoes not approve ordinances establishing angleparking on State highways.

E. Loading Zones. Local authorities areauthorized by Section 21112 of the Vehicle Codeto license and regulate the location of stands onstreets and highways for use of taxicabs and otherpublic carriers for hire. Where such stands arelocated on State highways, and highwaymaintenance is not delegated to the local authority,the approval of the Department is required. TheDistrict Directors have been delegated authority toapprove local ordinances establishing such stands.

Loading zone ordinances restricted for certainsegments of traffic such as "hotel patrons only"will not be approved. Bus stand ordinances aregenerally approved. Whenever practicable, busstands shall be located on the far side of theintersection.

8-3


Traffic Manual

"Except as provided in Section 22356, noperson shall drive a vehicle upon a highwayat a speed greater than 65 miles per hour (104km/h).”

2. 55 MPH Speed Limits -Section 22349 (b) of the Vehicle Code

states:"Notwithstanding any other provision of

law, no person shall drive a vehicle upon atwo-lane, undivided highway at a speedgreater than 55 miles per hour (88 km/h)unless that highway, or portion thereof, hasbeen posted for a higher speed by theDepartment of Transportation or appropriatelocal agency upon the basis of an engineeringand traffic survey." The posted speed limitshall not exceed 65 miles per hour (104 km/h).

3. 65 MPH Implementation Restriction -Section 22349.5 (a) of the Vehicle Code

states:"Notwithstanding any other provision of

law, no person shall drive a vehicle upon amultilane highway with more than two lanes,excluding any freeway, at a speed greaterthan 55 miles per hour (88 km/h) unless thathighway has been posted for a differentspeed by the Department of Transportationor appropriate local agency on the basis of anengineering and traffic survey." This sectionexpires on January 1, 1997 unless reenacted.

4. 55 MPH for Designated Vehicles -Section 22406 of the Vehicle Code provides

that no person shall drive any of the followingvehicles on a highway at a speed in excess of55 miles per hour (88 km/h):a. A motortruck or truck tractor having

three or more axles or any motortruckor truck tractor drawing any othervehicle.

b. A passenger vehicle or bus drawingany other vehicle.

8-4

8-03.1 Introduction

Speed limits in California are governed by theCalifornia Vehicle Code, Sections 22348 through22413.

The statutes establish or provide means ofestablishing speed limits by:

1. Basic speed limit law.2. Prima facie speed limits specified by statute

or established by the State or local authoritieswithin their respective jurisdictions on thebasis of an engineering and traffic survey.

8-03.2 Basic Speed Limit Law

Section 22350 of the Vehicle Code providesthat no person shall drive a vehicle upon a highwayat a speed greater than is reasonable or prudenthaving due regard for weather, visibility, trafficand the surface and width of the highway, and in noevent at a speed which endangers the safety ofpersons or property. This is the basic speed limitlaw.

Prima facie speed limits are specific limitsstated in the Vehicle Code or specific limitsestablished on the basis of an engineering andtraffic survey authorized by the Vehicle Code.The prima facie speed limits are preempted by thebasic speed limit law when the conditions in VehicleCode Section 22350 are met.

8-03.3 Establishment of Prima Facie and Maximum70 MPH Speed Zones

A. Legal AuthorityThe District Director of each transportation

district is authorized to issue orders regulating thespeed of traffic, up to and including 65 miles perhour (104 km/h), as described in Sections 2, 3, 5,and 8. The Director of the Department ofTransportation retains the authority to approveorders under sections 6, 9, and 10.

1. 65 MPH Speed Limits -Section 22349 (a) of the Vehicle Code

states:

Speed Limits and Zones 8-03


c. A school bus transporting any schoolpupil.

d. A farm labor vehicle whentransporting passengers.

e. A vehicle transporting explosives.f. A trailer bus as defined in Vehicle

Code Section 636.5. Less than 65 MPH on State Highways -

Section 22354 of the Vehicle Code statesthat:

“Whenever the Department ofTransportation determines upon the basis ofan engineering and traffic survey that thelimit of 65 miles per hour (104 km/h) is morethan is reasonable or safe upon any portionof a state highway where the limit of 65 milesper hour (104 km/h) is applicable, thedepartment may determine and declare aprima facie speed limit of 60 (96), 55 (88), 50(80), 45 (72), 40 (64), 35 (56), 30 (48) or 25(40) miles per hour (km/h), whichever isfound most appropriate to facilitate theorderly movement of traffic and is reasonableand safe, which declared prima facie speedlimit shall be effective when appropriatesigns giving notice thereof are erected uponthe highway.”

Vehicle code Section 22354.5 requires theDepartment of Transportation, prior toincreasing or decreasing a speed limitpursuant to Section 22354, to consult withthe Department of the California HighwayPatrol. Section 22354.5 authorizes a city ora county, at its option, to conduct a publichearing on the proposed increase or decrease.The Department of Transportation shall takeinto consideration the recommendations ofthe Department of the California HighwayPatrol and the results of the public hearing indetermining whether to increase or decreasethe speed limit.

6. Variable Limits on Freeways -Section 22355 of the Vehicle Code provides

that whenever the Department ofTransportation determines upon the basis ofan engineering and traffic survey that avariable speed limit would facilitate theorderly movement of traffic on any Statehighway which is a freeway, the Departmentmay erect signs displaying the different speedlimits at various times of day and night.

7. Local Roads and Streets -Section 22352 establishes prima facie speed

limits as follows:a. Fifteen miles per hour (24 km/h).

• At a railroad grade crossing with anobstructed view.

• At an uncontrolled highway intersectionwith an obstructed view.

• On an alley.b. Twenty five miles per hour (40 km/h).

• On any highway other than a Statehighway in any business or residencedistrict, unless a different limit isestablished by procedures describedelsewhere in the code.

• In a school zone. (Refer to TrafficManual, Section 10-02.1)

• When passing a facility primarily usedby senior citizens and contiguous to astreet other than a State highway.

Vehicle Code Sections 235 and 515 definea "business district” and a “residence district”respectively. Section 240 of the Codeprescribes a method for determining whethera highway is within a business or residencedistrict.

Sections 22357 and 22358 authorize localauthorities to establish prima facie speedlimits on streets and roads under theirjurisdiction on the basis of an engineeringand traffic survey.

8-5


Traffic Manual8-6

and projected traffic volumes in the case ofnewly constructed highway segments, todeclare 70 mile per hour (112 km/h)maximum speed limits for vehicles notsubject to Section 22406.

Highways to be considered for 70 mile perhour (112 km/h) maximum speed limit shallmeet the following criteria:

a. They should be rural freewaysconstructed to Interstate Freewaystandards.

b. The traffic volumes should bemoderate in relation to the capacity ofthe facility.

c. The collision rate should be near, orlower than average for rural freeways.

d. The interchanges should be widelyspaced.

On existing rural freeways, it is requiredthat a speed zone survey report be made.This report should include, where applicable,the following items:

a. Average daily peak hour and trafficvolumes.

b. Percentage of trucks.c. Collision and fatality rates (three years

if available).d. Speed checks.e. Minimum sight distance.f. Smallest radius curve.g. Maximum grade.h. Statement of Highway Patrol approval.i. Comments and recommendations.The District’s requests for 70 mile per hour

(112 km/h) speed limits must include theexact description of the limits of the zonewith ties to easily identifiable features suchas structures or stream crossings.

The Director of the Department ofTransportation, with the concurrence of theCalifornia Highway Patrol, retains theauthority to approve orders establishing 70mile per hour (112 km/h) speed limits.

Section 22357.1 authorizes local agencies,by resolution or ordinance, to set a primafacie speed limit of 25 miles per hour (40 km/h) on any street, other than a state highway,adjacent to a childrens playground in a publicpark during hours when children are expectedto use the facilities.

Section 22358.3 authorizes local agenciesto reduce prima facie speed limits to 20 (32)or 15 (24) mph (km/h) on narrow streets onthe basis of an engineering and traffic survey.

Section 22358.4 authorizes local agenciesto reduce prima facie speed limits to 20 (32)or 15 (24) mph (km/h) in school zones ornear senior citizen centers on the basis of anengineering and traffic survey.

8. Truck Speed Limits -Under Section 22407 of the Vehicle Code,

the Department may, on the basis ofengineering studies and a traffic survey,establish speed limits of 50 (80), 45 (72), 40(64), 35 (56), 30 (48), 25 (40) or 20 (32)miles per hour (km/h) for trucks with three ormore axles and with a manufacturer’s grossweight rating of 10,000 pounds (4,536 kg)or more on descending grades.

9. Minimum Speed Limits -Section 22400 of the Vehicle Code provides

that the Department may, on the basis of anengineering and traffic survey, establish aminimum speed limit, below which it shallbe unlawful for any vehicle to be driven,except when necessary for safe operation orin compliance with law.

10. 70 MPH Maximum Speed Limits -Section 22356 of the Vehicle Code allows

the Department of Transportation, afterconsultation with and the approval of theDepartment of the California Highway Patrol,upon the basis of an engineering and trafficsurvey on existing highway segments, orupon the basis of appropriate design standards


11. Speed Trap -Section 40802(b) provides that prima facie

speed limits established under Sections22352(b)(1), 22354, 22357, 22358 and22358.3 may not be enforced by radar unlessthe speed limit has been justified by anengineering and traffic survey within the lastfive years.

Under Section 40802(b) an engineeringand traffic survey is required whereenforcement involves the use of radar orother electronic speed measuring devices.Local streets and roads, as defined in Section40802(b), primarily serving abuttingresidential property, are exempt from thisrequirement.

B. Engineering and Traffic SurveysSection 627 of the Vehicle Code defines the

term engineering and traffic survey and lists itsrequirements. Section 627 states: "An engineeringand traffic survey shall include, among otherrequirements deemed necessary by the Departmentof Transportation, consideration of all of thefollowing: prevailing speeds as determined bytraffic engineering measurements; accidentrecords; and highway , traffic, and roadsideconditions not readily apparent to the driver."

The Engineering and Traffic Survey shouldcontain sufficient information to document thatthe conditions of CVC Section 627 have beencomplied with and that other conditions not readilyapparent to a motorist are properly identified.

Prevailing speeds are determined by a speedzone survey. Guidelines for a speed zone surveyinclude:

• The intent of the speed measurements isto determine the actual speed of theunimpeded traffic. The speed of trafficshould not be altered by concentratedlaw enforcement, or other means, justprior to, or while taking the speedmeasurements.

8-7

• Only one person is required for the fieldwork. Speeds can be read directly froma radar meter.

• Devices, other than radar, capable ofaccurately distinguishing and measuringthe unimpeded speed of free flowingvehicles unaffected by platoon movementmay be used. Special application ofdevices other than radar are particularlyappropriate on low volume facilities.

• A location should be selected whereprevailing speeds are representative ofthe entire speed zone section. If speedsvary on a given route, more than onespeed zone section may be required, withseparate measurements for each section.Locations for measurements should bechosen so as to minimize the effects oftraffic signals or stop signs.

• Speed measurements should be takenduring off-peak hours on weekdays. Ifthere is difficulty in obtaining the desiredquantity, speed measurements maybetaken during any period with freeflowing traffic. The weather should befair with no unusual conditionsprevailing. The surveyor and equipmentmust not affect the traffic speeds. Forthis reason, an unmarked car isrecommended, and the radar speed meterlocated as inconspicuously as possible.The meter should be placed to surveytraffic in both directions, and it shouldnot make an angle greater than 15 degreeswith the roadway centerline.

• In order for the sample to berepresentative of the actual traffic flow,the minimum sample should be 100vehicles in each survey. In no case shouldthe sample contain less than 50 vehicles.

• Short speed zones of less than 0.8 kmshould be avoided, except in transitionareas.


Traffic Manual8-8

• Speed zone changes should becoordinated with changes in roadwayconditions or roadside development.

• The speed limit normally should beestablished at the first five mile per hourincrement below the 85 percentile speed.However, in matching existing conditionswith the traffic safety needs of thecommunity, engineering judgement mayindicate the need for a further reductionof five miles per hour.

• Speed zoning should be in 10 mile perhour (16 km/h) increments except inurban areas where 5 mile per hour (8 km/h) increments are preferable.

• Speed zoning should be coordinated withadjacent jurisdictions.

• Section 22358.5 of the Vehicle Codestates that it is the intent of the Legislaturethat physical conditions such as width,curvature, grade and surface conditions,or any other condition readily apparentto the driver, in the absence of otherfactors, would not require specialdownward speed zoning.

Following are two methods of conductingengineering and traffic surveys to be used toestablish or justify prima facie speed limits. Thesemethods are presented as required by the VehicleCode.

1. State Highways - The engineering andtraffic survey for State highways is madeunder the direction of the District TrafficEngineer. The data shall include:

N

OPEN SCATTERED BUSINESS SCATTERED RESIDENTIAL

OfficeBuilding

MotelInstall40 MPH Sign

Remove25 MPH Sign

RemoveEND 25 MPH Sign

InstallEND 40 MPH Sign

Remove25 MPH Sign


R3

R2W63 R2

R3

W63

W47

TO SACRAMENTO

TO IO

NE

RO

AD

CO

UN

TY

2025

35

45

ALIGNMENTGRADIENT

ROADWAY WIDTHNO. OF STRIPED LANESTYPE OF DIVISION STRIPTRAFFIC SIGNAL DATAAVERAGE DAiLY TRAFFICOBSERVED SPEED-CRITICALOBSERVED SPEED-PACEEXISTING SIGNED ZONE

PROPOSED SPEED LIMIT

ACCIDENT RATEDISTANCE IN METERS

R 600 m RT. R 300 m LT.- 4.00%

REMARKS

15 METERS2

NONE

5000 550066 km/h (41 MPH)64 km/h (40 MPH)68 km/h (42 MPH)66 km/h (41 MPH)71 km/h (44 MPH)

51-68 km/h (32-42 MPH)55-71 km/h (34-44 MPH) 47-63 km/h (29-39 MPH)50-66 km/h (31-41 MPH) 50-66 km/h (31-41 MPH)

64 km/h

25 km/h (40 km/h)

MPH(km/h)

SPEED ZONE SURVEY SHEETFigure 8-1A

45(72)

35(56)

25(40)

15(24)

20 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 40 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 82.15 acc/MVkm (3.46 acc/MVM)


• If the highway is divided, the limits ofzones for each direction of travel.

• Plotted 85 percentile and pace speeds atlocation taken showing speed profile.

b. A report to the District Director shall:• State the reason for the initiation of speed

zone survey.• Give recommendations and supporting

reasons.• List the enforcement jurisdictions

involved and the recommendations andopinions of those officials.

• Give the stationing or mileage at thebeginning and ending of each proposedzone and any intermediate equations.Location ties must be given to readilyidentifiable physical features.

8-9

a.One copy of the Standard Speed ZoneSurvey Sheet (See Figures 8-1A and 8-1B)showing:• A north arrow.• Engineer’s station or post mileage.• Limits of the proposed zones.• Appropriate notations showing type of

roadside development, such as “scatteredbusiness”, “solid residential”, etc.Schools adjacent to the highway shouldbe shown, but other buildings need notbe plotted unless they are a factor in thespeed recommendation or the point oftermination of a speed zone.

• Collision rates for the zones involved.• Average daily traffic volume.• Location of traffic signals, signs and

markings.

+ 3.50%

15 METERS2

NONE

58 km/h (36 MPH)53 km/h (33 MPH)51 km/h (32 MPH)48 km/h (30 MPH)37-53 km/h (23-33MPH)32-48 km/h (20-30 MPH) 40-56 km/h (25-35 MPH)37-53 km/h (23-33 MPH)

48 km/h

25 km/h (40 km/h)

MPH(km/h)

SPEED ZONE SURVEY SHEET

Figure 8-1B

45(72)

35(56)

25(40)

15(24)

50 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 60 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 70 1 2 3 4 5

2.06 acc/MVkm (3.30 acc/MVM)9

9 METERS2

FIXED TIME6500

+1.00%

STATE OF CALIFORNADEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

TRAFFIC OPERATIONS PROGRAM

SPEED ZONE SURVEY

DIST. CO. RTE.

CITY OR TOWN

STREET OR ROAD

FROM KPM TO KPM

SCALE:

DATE:

LEGENDROAD SIGNSREGULATORY & WARNING

TRAFFIC SIGNALS

CRITICAL SPEED

LOWER LIMIT OF PACE

INDICATE HOSPITALS, PUBLIC BUILDINGS, AUDITORIUMS, PUBLIC PARKS, SCHOOLS

GREEN - EXISTING ZONES

RED - PROPOSED ZONES

R1

10 SJ 99

Lodi

Elm St.

20+00 75+00

1" = 200

11 - 4 - 88

SOLID BUSINESS SOLID RESIDENTIAL SCATTERED RESIDENTIAL

Remove25 MPH Sign Install

30 MPH Sign

InstallEND 30 MPH Sign

RemoveEnd 25 MPH SignRemove

25 MPH Sign

Remove25 MPH Sign


Remove25 MPH Sign

Install40 MPH Sign

Install 30 MPH Sign

R2

R3R2

R2

W47

R3

R2

TO STOCKTON

City HallS

PR

UC

E

AV

EN

UE

HE

LO

CK

ST

RE

ET

OA

K

BO

UL

EVA

RD

PIN

E

AV

EN

UE

75

70

65

60

55

50


Traffic Manual8-10

Figure 8-2CUMULATIVE SPEED CURVE SHEET

AVERAGE km/h MPHNO. OF VEHICLES

DIRECTION

85th PERCENTILE km/h MPH

PACE km/h / MPH TO

AVERAGE km/h MPHNO. OF VEHICLES

DIRECTION

85th PERCENTILE km/h MPH

PACE km/h / MPH TO

31.751.0100

NORTH

38.061.2

61.2/38.045.1/28.0

33.954.2100

SOUTH

39.563.6

61.2/38.045.1/28.0

100

10 MI.PACE

80

60

40

20

0

PE

RC

EN

TAG

E

80

60

40

20

0

PE

RC

EN

TAG

E

0 32.2(20)

64.3(40)

96.6(60)

km/h (MPH)

0 32.2(20)

64.3(40)

96.6(60)

km/h (MPH)

SPEED ZONE SURVEY

DIST. CO. RTE. km (MI)

DATE TIME: FROM TO

PRESENT SIGNED ZONE MPH

01 HUM 1 15.61 (9.7)

11:40 AM 1:30 PM

None

Pepperwood Sta. 505±

5 - 5 - 89

85th% SPEED63.6 km/h39.5 MPH

10 MI.PACE

MEDIAN SPEED53.1 km/h(33.0 MPH)

67%

IN P

AC

E

85th% SPEED60.8 km/h38.0 MPH

42%

IN P

AC

E

MEDIAN SPEED47.9 km/h(29.8 MPH)


8-11

Figure 8-3

VEHICLE SPEED SURVEY SHEETFOR CITY AND COUNTY THROUGH HIGHWAYS,

ARTERIALS, AND COLLECTOR ROADS

Jurisdiction Date

Location

Recorder Begin Time

Weather

End Time

Oth

er C

on

cid

erat

ion

s

Acc

iden

t H

isto

ry :

Un

usu

al C

on

dit

ion

s :

CUMULATIVEPERCENTAGE

PERCENTOF TOTAL

5 10 15 20 25 30

NUMBER OF VEHICLESMPH

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

50

55

60

65

Signed Date Title

TOTAL NUMBER OF VEHICLES11251977

11159958451 100

9994908277685944332619109421

100


Traffic Manual8-12

Figure 8-4

VEHICLE SPEED SURVEY SHEET(FOR 40 MPH AND UNDER)

Jurisdiction :

Residential Area or Subdivision :

VEHICLE SPEED DATA

NUMBER OF VEHICLESMPH

Location :

Record : Date : Begin Time :

Weather :

End Time :

TOTALOF EACHSPEED

MPH TOTAL NUMBER OF VEHICLES OBSERVED

40 & over

35

30

25

20

15 & under

CRITICAL SPEEDCALCULATION

Total divided by 6 =Count this number of vehicles downfrom the highest speed observed todetermine the critical speed

CRITICAL SPEED = MPH

Other Considerations :

Accident History :

Unusual Conditions :

Date : Signed : Title :

1101234667

1153211

54

26

54 9


indicated in the collision records, speed limitssomewhat below the 85 percentile may bejustified. Concurrence and support ofenforcement officials are necessary for thesuccessful operation of a restricted speedzone.

Speed zones of less than 0.8 km and shorttransition zones should be avoided.

2. City and County Through Highways,Arterials, Collector Roads and Local Streets.a.Introduction - This is a short method of

speed zoning based on the premise that areasonable speed limit is one that conformsto the actual behavior of the majority ofmotorists, and that by measuring motorists’speeds, one will be able to select a speedlimit that is both reasonable and effective.Other factors that need to be consideredinclude but are not limited to; the mostrecent two year collision record, roadwaydesign speed, safe stopping sight distance,superelevation, shoulder conditions, profileconditions, intersection spacing and offsets,commercial driveway characteristics, andpedestrian traffic in the roadway withoutsidewalks. In most situations, the shortform will be adequate, but the procedureused on State highways may be used at theoption of the local agency.

b.Determination of Existing Speed Limits -Figures 8-3 and 8-4 show samples of

data sheets which may be used to recordspeed observations. Specific types ofvehicles may be tallied by use of lettersymbols in appropriate squares.

The factors justifying a reduction belowthe 85th percentile speed in the speed limitare the same factors mentioned above.Whenever such factors are considered toestablish the speed limit, they should bedocumented on the speed zone survey orthe accompanying engineering report.

8-13

In determining the speed limit which ismost appropriate to facilitate the orderlymovement of traffic and is reasonable andprudent, important factors are prevailingspeeds, unexpected conditions, and collisionrecords.

Speed limits should be established at ornear the 85 percentile speed, which is definedas that speed at or below which 85 percent ofthe traffic is moving. The 85 percentilespeed is often referred to as the criticalspeed. Pace speed is defined as the 10-mileincrement of speed containing the largestnumber of vehicles (See Figure 8-2). Thelower limit of the pace is plotted on theSpeed Zone Survey Sheets as an aid indetermining the proper zone limits. Speedlimits higher than the 85 percentile are notgenerally considered reasonable and prudent.Speed limits below the 85 percentile do notordinarily facilitate the orderly movement oftraffic and require constant enforcement tomaintain compliance. Speed limitsestablished on the basis of the 85th percentileconform to the consensus of those who drivehighways as to what speed is reasonable andprudent, and are not dependent on thejudgement of one or a few individuals.

The basic speed law states that no personshall drive at a speed greater than is reasonableor prudent. The majority of drivers complywith this law. Speed limits set at or slightlybelow the 85 percentile speed provide lawenforcement officers with a means ofcontrolling the drivers who will not conformto what the majority considers reasonableand prudent. Further studies have shownthat establishing a speed limit at less than the85th percentile (Critical Speed) generallyresults in an increase in accident rates.

When roadside development results intraffic conflicts and unusual conditions whichare not readily apparent to drivers, as


Traffic Manual8-14

Generally, the most decisive evidence ofconditions not apparent to the motoristsurface in accident histories.

The establishment of a speed limit ofmore than 5 miles per hour (8 km/h) belowthe 85 percentile speed should be donewith great care as studies have shown thatestablishing a speed limit at less than the85th percentile generally results in anincrease in accident rates, in addition, thismay make violators of a disproportionatenumber of the reasonable majority ofdrivers.

C. Truck Speed Zone on Descending GradesThe grades which may require posting for

downhill trucks are those grades on which there issome record of runaway commercial vehicles.Grades shorter than 1.6 km should not requireposting since braking alone can generally providesufficient control on so short a grade.

To establish a downhill truck speed limit, aphysical profile showing length and gradient anda downhill speed profile for three or more axlecommercial vehicles with a gross rating of 10,000pounds (4,536 km/h) or more will be provided.Speed profiles for truck speed limits shall beprepared on the same form as other speed surveys.An analysis of collisions involving trucks shall beprepared. Posted speeds should be on the low sideof the scale, generally within the pace of loadedcommercial vehicles. If warranted, the DistrictDirector shall issue a standard speed zone order.

Posting of the regulation will be by placementof a standard 900 mm x 1150 mm R2 speed limitsign with an R4 truck plate above. A standard R3sign with an R4 truck plate shall be posted at theend of the truck zone when appropriate.

D. Construction Speed ZonesConstruction speed zones are established on

roads under construction where reduced speed isnecessary to limit the risk of an accident to workers

and the traveling public during all hours of the dayand night. Protection of workmen during workinghours is provided for under CVC Section 22362.Construction speed zones should be avoided iftraffic can be controlled by other means.

Where traffic obstructions exist only during thehours of construction, the speed zone signs shallbe covered during nonworking hours. The traveledway should be signed and delineated tocommunicate physical conditions to the motoristssuch as curvature, narrow roadways, detours, roughroads, dips or humps, etc. The advisory speedplate (W6) may be used in combination withvarious warning type signs to decrease speed at aparticular location. To preserve the effectivenessof this sign, it should not be used unless thecondition to which it applies is immediate and willbe experienced by all motorists.

The Road Work-Speed Limit sign (C17) shouldonly be used when needed to reduce the risk of anaccident to workers on the highway. It should beplaced within 400 feet (122 m) of each end of therestricted zone and removed whenever the workersleave the area. The C17 signs shall not be used onState highway contracts.

The following instructions apply to constructionspeed zones:

1. Speed Limit and End Zone signs will beinstalled at locations jointly agreed upon bythe Traffic Engineer and the ConstructionEngineer. The speed zone will be verified byan engineering and traffic survey.

2. The District Construction Engineer shouldadvise the District Traffic Engineer as to theneed for removal or relocation of the signs.

3. Orders for construction speed zones areordinarily issued for the entire length of theconstruction project. This avoids thenecessity and resulting delay of obtaining anew order each time the speed restrictionsigns require relocation to fit conditions. Itis not the intention, however, that the entirelength be posted for the duration of the


contract. Speed restriction signs shall beposted only in areas where the travelingpublic is affected by construction operations.As the construction progresses, signs shouldbe moved as appropriate.

4. Signs shall be removed immediatelyfollowing completion of the construction orchange in the conditions for which they wereinstalled.

5. When the construction is completed or thespeed restriction is no longer necessary, theformal speed zone orders shall be revoked.

8-03.4 Speed Limit Signs and Markings

A. Legal Requirements.For the speed limit to be effective,

applicable Vehicle Code sections requirethat prima facie speed limits established bythe Department of Transportation or a localauthority shall be posted with appropriatesigns for the speed limit to be effective.

B. Restricted Speed Limit Signs. Speed limitsigns shall be placed at the beginning of allrestricted speed zones. Where speed zonesare longer than 1.6 km, intermediate signsmay be placed at approximate 1.6 kmintervals. For three or more lanes in eachdirection, dual installation may be used.

C. “End___Speed Limit” (R3), or “SpeedLimit____” (R2) signs as appropriate shallbe placed at the end of all restricted speedzones.

Those segments where a speed limit of 70miles per hour (112 km/h) has been approvedby the Department of Transportation, withapproval by the California Highway Patrol,shall be posted as follows:• At the segment entrance, “ Speed Limit 70

MPH” signs (R2) shall be installed rightof traffic off of the right shoulder.

• R2 (70) signs shall also be installed off ofthe right shoulder only, throughout thesegment, at a maximum of 40 km intervals.The 40 km interval may be modified toinclude locations following entrance rampsfrom significant traffic generators.

•“Autos with Trailers, Trucks 55 Maximum”signs (R6-1) shall be installedapproximately 230 m following each R2(60, 65 or 70) sign, both at the beginningand throughout each 60 (96), 65 (104) or70 (112) MPH (km/h) segment.

• “Slower Traffic Keep Right” signs (R56)may be installed at locations where thereis a tendency of the motorists to drive inthe left-hand lane(s) below the normalspeed of traffic. Signs shall be placed inprotected locations.

• At the end of the 70 MPH segment,"SPEED LIMIT __ MPH" signs (R2)shall be installed off of the right shoulder.Freeway segments where a 55 Miles Per

hour speed limit has been approved by theDepartment of Transportation with theapproval of the California Highway Patrolshall be posted as follows:

The beginning of the segment shall beposted with a R2(55) sign installed on theright shoulder and left shoulder where themedian is of sufficient width to permit signmaintenance without lane closures.Subsequent signs should then be posted onthe right shoulder, on approximate 4.8 kmintervals, with no more than 3 interchangesbetween signs. At the end of the segment, aR2 sign with the appropriate number for thenext speed limit should be posted on the rightshoulder.

Conventional highways with 55 mile perhour (88 km/h) speed limits should be postedas follows: The beginning of the segment

8-15


Traffic Manual

shall be posted with a R2(55) sign installedon the right shoulder. Subsequent signsshould then be posted on approximate 8 to 16km intervals and immediately after locationswhere significant volumes of traffic enterthe segment. At the end of the segment, a R2sign with the appropriate number for thenext speed limit should be posted on the rightshoulder.

Conventional highways with 65 mile perhour (104 km/h) speed limits should beposted as follows: The beginning of thesegment should be posted with a R2(65) signinstalled on the right shoulder. Subsequentsigns should then be posted at 8 to 16 km

8-16

8-04.2 One-Way Streets

Section 21657 of the Vehicle Code authorizesauthorities in charge of any highway to designate,by ordinance or resolution, streets or highways forone-way traffic. No such ordinance or resolutionis effective with respect to any State highwaywithout the prior approval in writing of theDepartment. If, by local ordinance, a State highwaythrough a city has been made one of a pair of one-way streets, the Commission may adopt theadditional street into the State Highway System.This is done under Section 111.5 of the Streets andHighways Code.

8-04.3 Turning Movements

Sections 21451 and 21454 of the Vehicle Codeprovide that vehicular traffic may make a semi-circular or U-turn on a green signal or green arrowexcept where such turn is prohibited by signs.

Section 22113 of the Vehicle Code authorizeslocal authorities, by ordinance, to prohibit themaking of any turning movements by any vehicleat any intersection or between any designated

Other Traffic Regulations 8-04

intervals and after locations where significantvolumes of traffic enter the segment. At theend of the segment, a R2 sign with theappropriate number for the next speed limitshould be posted on the right shoulder.

D. Speed Limit Markings. Pavement markingswith appropriate figures may be used tosupplement speed limit signs.

E. State-line Signs. R2 and R6-1 signs givingmaximum statewide speed limits forvarioustypes of vehicles shall be installed on

varioustypes of vehicles shall be installed onall State highways near the points of entranceinto California. These signs should be placedin a location to be most effectively viewedby the approaching motorists.

8-04.1 Through Highways

Sections 21352 and 21355 of the Vehicle Codeprovide for the installation of STOP signs either ator near the entrance to a State highway, except atsignalized intersections, or at any location so as tocontrol traffic within an intersection. When STOPsigns have been erected at all entrances, a highwayshall constitute a through highway.

Authority to place stop signs facing Statehighway traffic is delegated to the DistrictDirectors.

Section 21354 of the Code authorizes localauthorities to establish through highways and installSTOP signs in a like manner, but Section 21353provides that no local authority may erect ormaintain any STOP sign or other device requiringa stop, on any State highway, except by permissionof the Department of Transportation. TheDepartment will grant such permission only whenan investigation indicates that the STOP sign willbenefit traffic.

Authority to grant such permission is delegatedto the District Directors.


intersections. No such ordinance shall be effectivewith respect to a State highway until approved bythe Department of Transportation.

Section 21352 authorizes the Department torestrict turning movements on State highways.

A thorough investigation is necessary todetermine whether or not the prohibited movementscan be satisfactorily made at other locations withoutundue circuitry of travel.

8-04.4 Truck Routes and Size and WeightLimitations

Generally, the Department is not unilaterallyauthorized to prohibit truck travel on Statehighways. Various sections in the CaliforniaVehicle Code allow cities and counties to restrict,by ordinance, commercial vehicles subject to thespecific conditions in those sections. Generally,no such local ordinance shall be effective withrespect to any State highway until the ordinancehas been approved by the Department Thisapproval can only be made by the Director ofTransportation. The Traffic Operations Program,Office of Commercial Vehicle Operations is theDirector's staff on these issues. This Office shallbe contacted with respect to any proposals fortruck limitations.

The proposed local ordinance must designatean unrestricted alternate route, or routes, for use bythe prohibited vehicles. Such proposed localordinances will not be approved unless the alternateroute, or routes, are considered suitable by thedepartment.

An investigation of designated alternate routesshall be made with special attention being given tothe following features:

8-17

1. Geometrics.2. Increase in distance of travel and

comparisons in time of travel.3. Railroad grade crossings.4. Present traffic and practical capacity of

proposed alternates.5. Structural adequacy of pavement for heavy

truck traffic.6. Heavy grades.7. Proximity to schools or school routes.8. Developed residential areas.

8-04.5 Restrictions on Use of Freeways

Section 21960 of the Vehicle Code authorizesthe Department of Transportation and localauthorities, with respect to freeways under theirrespective jurisdictions, to prohibit or restrict theuse of freeways by pedestrians, bicycles or othernonmotorized traffic or by any person operating amotor-driven cycle or a motorized bicycle.

No ordinance or resolution of local authoritiesshall apply to any State highway until the proposedordinance or resolution has been presented to, andapproved in writing by, the Department ofTransportation. The District Directors have beendelegated the authority to issue orders restrictingthe use of freeways. They are also authorized toapprove orders, ordinances or resolutions of localauthorities which would restrict the use of Statehighways.

It is the Department's policy to restrict the useof freeways when a satisfactory alternate route isavailable, which is nearly always the case.However, if circumstances require that their be norestriction, the Program Manager of HeadquartersTraffic Operations Program shall be notified.

chapter 8 - regulations - california department of ... · pdf file1-1996 traffic regulations...

Documents