Red represents stop, prohibitive, restrictive and regulatory type signs designed to inform highway users of traffic laws or regulations and indicate the applicability of legal requirements that would not otherwise be apparent.

YES, it matters a great deal! Many signs are not in compliance with the LAW. Signs that do not meet Federal Standards can expose you to costly, unnecessary liability.

ALL traffic control devices nationwide must conform to the FHWA (Federal Highway Administration) MUTCD (Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices) as provided under Title 23 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 655, sub paragraph F.

The MUTCD states that ALL traffic signs MUST be REFLECTIVE, utilizing encapsulated reflective sheeting. It is not acceptable to use signs with glass beads thrown onto wet inks. Signs MUST meet a minimum reflective standard.

All 50 States have the option to adopt the MUTCD, with or without revisions, or to adopt their own version. The most current edition of the MUTCD (at the time of this printing) is dated November 2003. The current edition is available on-line via the FHWA web site at http://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/. You may view it, print it out and to ask any questions you may have.

The MUTCD is a "living" document and subject to revisions.
The MUTCD is intended to promote uniformity, improve traffic operations and safety, and incorporates technical advances.

The MUTCD audience includes, but is not limited to, the following groups:

• State and local officials, consultants and engineers
• Academic institutions
• Construction and manufacturing businesses
• Police, fire and emergency response
• Insurance industries and legal professionals
• All private industries

TAPCO can supply you with products to help you comply with the law and to minimize your liability. We offer the widest selection of compliant signs available, including a comprehensive selection of State-specific ADA Handicap signage as specified by the American Disabilities Act.