SafetyEdge^SM

The SafetyEdge^SM technology shapes the edge of the pavement at approximately 30 degrees from the pavement cross slope during the paving process. This safety practice eliminates the potential for vertical drop-off at the pavement edge, has minimal effect on project cost, and can improve pavement durability by reducing edge raveling of asphalt.

Rural road crashes involving edge drop-offs are 2-4 times more likely to include a fatality than other crashes on similar roads.¹ Vehicles may leave the roadway for various reasons ranging from distracted driver errors to low visibility, or to the presence of an animal on the road. Exposed vertical pavement edges can cause vehicles to become unstable and prevent their safe return to the roadway. The SafetyEdge^SM gives drivers the opportunity to return to their travel lane while maintaining control of their vehicle.

The SafetyEdge^SM technology only requires adding one of several commercially available devices to the screed or endgate when placing hot-mix asphalt. Forms for shaping the edge of concrete pavement are simpler and can be made on site by the contractor. Some agencies allow the SafetyEdge^SM to remain exposed while a segment is under construction, unlike conventional pavement edges. However, before construction ends, agencies should bring the adjacent roadside flush with the top of the pavement for both the SafetyEdge^SM and traditional pavement edge. Over time, regardless of the edge type, the edge may become exposed due to settling, erosion, and tire wear. When this occurs, the gentle slope provided by the SafetyEdge^SM is preferred versus the traditional vertical pavement edge.

Transportation agencies should develop standards for implementing the SafetyEdge^SM systemwide on all new asphalt paving and resurfacing projects where curbs and/or guardrail are not present, while also encouraging standard application for concrete pavements.

Cross-section view of an overlay with the SafetyEdge^SM. Source: FHWA-SA-17-044