What is the time frame for a damaged stop, yield, no U-turn or do not enter sign to be repaired once an agency is notified?

Answer

We recommend that all departments set a policy on sign replacement. Here is an example of what could be done.

• Critical signs – call in a crew and replace as soon as possible (examples: stop and yield signs, some critical warning signs)
• Important signs – repair within 1 business day (examples: most warning signs, regulatory signs such as speed limits); some agencies have a 24-hour policy for this and will have a crew come in over the weekend
• Standard signs – repair within a week or two (examples: delineators not part of a curve, parking signs, important street name signs); the agency needs to set a policy for the time to replace signs in this category
• Other signs – replace as time/budget allows (examples: street name signs* and guide signs); *street signs may be higher priority in some cases

 Overall, every agency should have a policy for sign replacement. Just as critical is to follow the policy once it has been set.

Check with the NYSDOT regional traffic safety engineer to see what policy they have.