In ROW design, which description correctly defines a sight triangle?

In ROW design, which description correctly defines a sight triangle?

• A. The triangular area near road shoulders
• B. The area where vegetation is restricted to improve aesthetics
• C. The paved area around the crosswalk to slow traffic
• D. The cleared area at intersections that provides unobstructed visibility for drivers

Answer: (D)

Sight triangles are the areas around intersections reserved to preserve a driver’s line of sight to cross-traffic and pedestrians. Keeping this area clear ensures a driver has an unobstructed view in time to react, stop, or yield safely as they approach or enter an intersection. The description describing a cleared area at intersections that provides unobstructed visibility for drivers matches this purpose exactly: it defines the space that must be free of vegetation, signs, parked cars, or other obstructions so sight distance is maintained. The other options refer to roadside aesthetics, crosswalk treatment, or general areas near shoulders, none of which capture the essential idea of providing unobstructed visibility at intersections.

Sight triangles are the areas around intersections reserved to preserve a driver’s line of sight to cross-traffic and pedestrians. Keeping this area clear ensures a driver has an unobstructed view in time to react, stop, or yield safely as they approach or enter an intersection. The description describing a cleared area at intersections that provides unobstructed visibility for drivers matches this purpose exactly: it defines the space that must be free of vegetation, signs, parked cars, or other obstructions so sight distance is maintained. The other options refer to roadside aesthetics, crosswalk treatment, or general areas near shoulders, none of which capture the essential idea of providing unobstructed visibility at intersections.