New Device Improves Safety in Work Zones

Oklahoma DOT decided to evaluate the flashing stop/slow paddle. The device, developed under the Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP), resembles the stop/slow paddles flaggers usually employ to control traffic, but also features a high-intensity flashing light on the “stop” side of the paddle. If a motorist appears not to be paying attention to the message on the paddle, the flagger can activate the light, which flashes quickly and brightly to attract the driver’s attention.