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Traffic Control Devices All -Way Stop Sign Implementation <br />Purpose <br />The All -Way STOP condition is primarily intended to address <br />either a higher than expected intersection crash frequency or to <br />be an interim measure at locations that have demonstrated a <br />need for a traffic signal installation, but where the signal cannot <br />be installed in a reasonable period of time. It is a common belief <br />that installing STOP signs on all approaches of an intersection will <br />result in fewer crashes. Research indicates that average crash <br />frequency at All -Way STOP controlled intersection is 50% higher <br />than thru /STOP intersections. Also, there is no evident to suggest <br />R1 -1 <br />that STOP signs decrease travel speeds. Source: FHWA Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devi( <br />Effects <br />Volumes <br />Little or no effect. <br />Speed <br />Little or no reduction in speed, mid -block speed possibly increase <br />Traffic Noise and Air <br />Little or no effect. <br />Traffic Safety <br />In most cases, the installation of an All -Way STOP will increase the frequency of <br />crashes. Only in those rare cases where the number of crashes with the <br />Thru /STOP control is unusually high, is the forecast of safety improvement <br />probable. <br />Advantages <br />• Inexpensive installation costs (do require continual maintenance costs) <br />• Defines driver's right -of -way <br />• Increase opportunity for pedestrians to cross the roadway <br />• May discourage cut - through traffic <br />Disadvantages <br />• Can cause negative traffic safety impacts if sign is not warranted <br />• May result in mid -block speeding <br />• Increasing levels of intersection control are associated with increased <br />frequency of crashes. <br />• Difficult to enforce full stop control compliance <br />• Could result in increase in speeds between the signs as drivers try to make up <br />for lost time <br />Problems Targeted <br />• Unusual conditions at intersection including crash frequency, turning patterns, <br />delay and pedestrian conflicts. <br />Design <br />• Traffic volumes and crash frequency thresholds need to be met as established <br />in the Minnesota Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. <br />-The most effective deployment of the All -Way STOP condition is at intersections <br />where the volume of traffic on the major and minor roads is approximately equa. <br />APRIL 2005 18 <br />