For speeds of 40 mph or less, what is the formula for taper length?

In the context of traffic control and safety for road construction or maintenance, determining the appropriate taper length is essential for ensuring that drivers can navigate through work zones safely. For speeds of 40 mph or less, the formula for calculating taper length is given by L = W^2S/60.

This formula is derived from principles of traffic engineering, where 'L' is the taper length, 'W' is the width of the lane being closed (in feet), and 'S' denotes the speed in miles per hour. The squaring of the width (W^2) indicates that as the width of a lane closure increases, the taper length must also increase at a rate proportional to the square of that width to maintain safety and visibility for drivers, allowing them enough space to adjust their path as they approach the work zone.

Using this formula effectively helps to reduce the risk of accidents by providing adequate space for vehicles to merge or adjust their position on the roadway. Therefore, the correct application of this formula is vital for road safety management in work zones.