Traffic cones aid traffic flow control, with various sizes and shapes used for construction projects or breakdowns. Developed in the US before WWI, modern cones are made of plastic and come in bright colors with heavy rubber bases. They are commonly used by highway departments for smaller detours and night work, and even ordinary motorists may use them for safety.
A traffic cone is a simple device used to aid in traffic flow control. They have been in use for about as long as major motor highways have existed. Cones come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Some are used to direct traffic around construction projects or large events. Other smaller varieties can be carried by motorists for use if a breakdown requires a stop by the side of a busy highway.
Major motor highways were first introduced in the United States during the first decades of the 20th century. At the same time, automobiles began to be produced in large numbers. These two developments, taken together, have led to the development of devices to aid in traffic control and routing.
The traffic cone was developed in the United States on the eve of World War I. These devices were originally made of concrete, which gave motorists some incentive to take traffic alerts seriously. However, these early concrete cones were uncomfortable.
Typical modern traffic cones are made of plastic. Orange cones are most common, but other bright neon colors are also used. As a general rule, any color that will catch the eye of a passing motorist will do. Many traffic cones have heavy rubber bases, giving them the ability to stay upright even in heavy rain. Cones typically stack easily, and a large number can be stored in a small space.
Highway departments in the United States and many other countries make use of traffic cones to divert traffic around construction. Cones are more often used for smaller detours, as they are more prone to loss, theft or damage than larger, more robust traffic management devices. They are also smaller than many other devices and are therefore less useful when directing a large volume of traffic traveling at high speeds.
Night work is common in large metropolitan areas, where day work would shut down entire cities. However, this type of construction poses additional challenges, and a special type of traffic cone is often used to manage traffic around these sites. Reflective strips or collars can be applied to common traffic cones.
Light traffic cone models are also available. This variety typically includes a powerful internal light, allowing the cone to be easily seen at night. Such cones are usually also equipped with reflectors to maximize visibility.
Even ordinary motorists, especially truckers, use traffic cones. In the event of a breakdown, it may not be possible to exit a motorway. When this is the case, safety cones, flares or triangles may be employed to warn and divert traffic.
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