What is the primary goal of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways?

The primary goal of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways is to improve responder safety. This document provides guidelines and standards that ensure consistency in the design and placement of traffic control devices, which is essential for maintaining orderly traffic flow and enhancing overall safety for everyone on the road, particularly emergency responders. By establishing uniformity in signage and signals, the manual helps create predictable driving environments, reducing the likelihood of accidents that can jeopardize the safety of both the public and emergency personnel.

While enhancing traffic flow and standardizing road signs contribute to this goal, they are more secondary benefits. Reducing the need for traffic signals may be a consideration in certain contexts, but it is not the central purpose of the manual. Overall, the focus on improving responder safety aligns with the manual's mission to protect lives and prevent accidents in emergency situations.