Traffic Engineering

Rural intersection conflict warning systems

Improving safety on rural roads

The Rural Intersection Conflict Warning System (RICWS) has been deployed across the state to aid motorists to safely cross thru-STOP intersections. Motorists will see intersection conflict warning systems at some at-risk intersections as MnDOT uses technology at rural intersections to give motorists real-time warnings about traffic conditions. The warning systems are expected to reduce fatal and serious injury crashes on Minnesota roads.

Where are they being installed?

MnDOT has designed several kinds of signs that address safety concerns at various locations throughout Greater Minnesota.

One type of sign will advise drivers on major roads with flashing lights and the language “Entering Traffic When Flashing.”  Motorists on minor roads will see the flashing lights and the message “Traffic Approaching When Flashing.”

RICWS evaluation and design investigation

Project documents

• Final report (PDF)
• Technical paper (Word)

Sample plans

Two lane

• Two lane special provisions (Word)

Four lane

• Four lane special provisions (Word)

For more information contact Jerry Kotzenmacher 651-234-7054.

Additional links

• Watch this short video to learn more about rural intersection conflict warning systems.
• MnDOT is a member of the ENTERPRISE Pooled Fund Study, which is conducting and collecting research on rural intersection conflict warning systems nationwide.
• RICWS project page

Rural intersection conflict warning system

Intersection conflict warning system

A few signs in other locations warn drivers on minor roads to “Look for Traffic.” Those signs are located in the following areas:

Stop sign warning systems

Another type of warning system that MnDOT has researched flashes LEDs within the boarder of a STOP sign when drivers approach the intersection at an unsafe speed. Motorists will see this sign at: