Transportation officials would like to hear what you think they should put on those signs.
MoDOT posts safety message on 250 signs on interstates and major highways across Missouri. From mid-May to mid-June, more than 830 people voted on their favorite message out of a list of 16 messages used on Missouri’s signs. The top three messages to receive votes are:
1. Pass on Left, Drive on Right
2. Put Down Your Phone and Drive
3. Turn Signals The Original Instant Message
The primary purpose of the dynamic message signs is to convey critical information to motorists about lane closures or complete road closures. When the roads are clear of incidents, the signs convey safety messages to get motorists’ attention.
“The results of the vote show us the messages regarding driver behavior concerns are the ones motorists like the most including passing, distracted driving and use of turn signals,” said MoDOT Traffic Management and Operations Engineer Jon Nelson. “We also received many ideas for new messages from our customers, which we will incorporate into our messaging over the coming months.”
Each month MoDOT staff develops a set of messages related to certain themes suited for a particular month or time of year. For example, July includes a DWI enforcement effort by the Missouri State Highway Patrol as well as heavy summer vacation travel and hot temperatures. Messages during July are focused on not drinking and driving, buckling up, proper use of the passing lane and reminders not to leave kids in hot cars. The message themes change each month.
“Our goal is to find ways to get the safety message to drivers so people will stop, think and make the right safety choice before they drive without a seatbelt or pick up their phone and text while they drive,” said Nelson.
Missourians are invited to continue to submit their ideas for new messages. The space on the sign is limited to three lanes with 16 spaces on each line. Message topics and ideas can be emailed to MoDOT at MoMessageBoards@modot.mo.gov.