trafficcontrol

Traffic control is the set of processes, practices, and devices used to manage the movement of people and vehicles on road networks to enhance safety and efficiency. It covers planning, operation, and enforcement measures that determine when and where different users travel, how fast they travel, and how they interact at intersections, along corridors, and in work zones.

Key elements of traffic control include traffic signals, regulatory and warning signs, pavement markings, and barriers or channelizing devices, as well as temporary devices used in construction or incidents. Enforcement by police and the management of incidents and detours are integral to maintaining safe and predictable flow. Traffic control also involves coordinating pedestrian and cycling movements, accessibility considerations, and multimodal access.

Standards and guidelines aim to ensure consistent understanding of signs, signals, and markings across users and locations. In the United States, the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) provides national standards and guidance, while other regions follow their own national or international regulations, such as the Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals. Local authorities may adapt standards for urban design, climate, and traffic patterns.

Technologies augment traditional control methods through intelligent transportation systems (ITS), including adaptive signal control, traffic surveillance cameras, connected-vehicle communications, and centralized traffic management centers. These tools enable real-time adjustment of signals, incident response, and better coordination among road users, transit, and emergency services.