Which criteria must be met for sign placement according to MUTCD?

• A. Signs must not exceed 10' in height
• B. Signs should have high legibility and visibility
• C. Signs must be placed in areas of high pedestrian traffic
• D. Signs can be placed at any angle

Answer: (B)

The correct response emphasizes the necessity for signs to have high legibility and visibility, which are crucial criteria outlined in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). High legibility ensures that the messages conveyed by signs can be read and understood quickly and easily by drivers and pedestrians. Visibility, on the other hand, involves factors such as size, color contrast, and lighting conditions, which are essential for ensuring that signs are seen by road users under various conditions.

Maintaining high standards for legibility and visibility promotes safety and effective communication on roadways, helping to reduce confusion and accidents. This is especially critical in environments with varying levels of traffic and at times of low visibility, such as during nighttime or inclement weather.

The other options, while they may present considerations for sign placement, do not align directly with the established MUTCD criteria. For instance, the stipulation regarding height is not a blanket requirement, as various types of signs can have different height regulations based on their purpose and location. The criteria for placement in areas of high pedestrian traffic is also not a standard requirement across all sign placements under MUTCD guidelines. Lastly, the angle of sign placement must adhere to specific regulations to ensure effectiveness, rather than being placed at any angle.