Quirky and amusing messages on electronic signs along highways and freeways are set to be removed as the U.S. Federal Highway Administration introduces new regulations outlined in its comprehensive 1,100-page manual released in December 2023.
States have been granted a two-year window to implement these changes, with a specific focus on rules governing the regulation of signs and traffic control devices. The ban on overhead electronic signs with obscure or humorous meanings, references to pop culture, and those that could potentially be misunderstood or distracting to drivers is slated to take effect in 2026.
The agency, a part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, underscores the need for signs to be “simple, direct, brief, legible, and clear,” emphasizing their role in conveying essential information such as warnings about crashes, adverse weather conditions, traffic delays, seatbelt reminders, and cautions against speeding or impaired driving.
Notable messages, including Massachusetts’ “Use Yah Blinkah,” Ohio’s “Visiting in-laws? Slow down, get there late,” Pennsylvania’s “Don’t drive Star Spangled Hammered,” New Jersey’s “Hocus pocus, drive with focus,” and Arizona’s “Hands on the wheel, not your meal,” will soon be phased out.
Arizona, known for its creative approach to electronic signs with over 300 in place, has held a yearly contest for the past seven years to discover the funniest and most imaginative messages.
“The humor part of it, we kind of like,” said State Representative David Cook. “I think in Arizona, the majority of us do if not all of us. … Why are you trying to have the federal government come in and tell us what we can do in our own state? The prime example is that the federal government is not focusing on what they need to be.”
The DOT remains unfazed, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing clear and impactful information on these highway displays.
Source: The Trucker
