Types of Variable Message Signs and Their Benefits for Traffic Management

Today, the usage of variable message sign boards encompasses areas critical for controlling traffic flow, including preventing accidents with speeding control in a particular zone. 

But how do these LED-assisted variable message signboards are different from a billboard with instructions printed on them? Precisely, that is what this post aims to cover - outline types of variable message signs and their benefits for traffic management.  

● Fixed Variable Message Signs

These signs come in different sizes, depending on where and how you plan to use them. However, the most widely used shape is a large rectangle. These hired variable message signs help to effectively deliver traffic-related information to drivers and motorists on the road. Often used on roadways, highways and tunnel entrances, these signs display information regarding temperature, speed limits, road congestion ahead, change in traffic conditions and lane controls. 

● Portable Variable Message Signs

Portable or mobile VMS boards have become a significant part of traffic management and community awareness projects. Their use is pivotal in effectively providing diversions for traffic away from work sites and potential bottlenecks or areas known to cause problems. In addition, you can utilise these boards for various reasons like roadwork and traffic management, events and advertising.

Road and traffic authorities are very well aware of the problem of traffic congestion in big cities. The level of this congestion keeps increasing as the world progresses. There has been growth in travel, expansion of roads, and infrastructure projects, leading to an increase in traffic congestion. Being stuck in said traffic, uncertain travel times and constant delays can be frustrating for drivers, leading to accidents. 

A VMS board can come in handy for deploying messages of congestion ahead well in advance and direct drivers to other alternate routes if possible. Also, you can utilise the VMS boards to display all kinds of information that you think will be relevant to drivers and road safety. 

Changing road conditions can be an unexpected and hazardous situation for drivers, especially those who travel by the same route every day. Deploying a hired variable message sign can be pivotal in displaying advanced warnings to drivers, such as lane closures or speed limit changes coming up ahead. This advanced information can help drivers be more alert to the changes they are going to encounter. 

Installation and removal of hired variable message signs are straightforward. Since these boards are message-fed, you can alter the message or sign without having to uninstall the sign repeatedly. Such a feature can help save time, resources, and effort.

 

In the early years of its release, the VMS technology proved its excellence by reducing road accidents per year, which significantly boosted its popularity. The effectiveness demonstrates the importance of these signs, making them crucial for managing traffic flow.