What is the main purpose of rumble strips on the road?

The primary purpose of rumble strips is to alert drivers to approaching hazards, particularly in situations where a driver may be at risk of drifting out of their lane or approaching a stop or intersection. These strips create a tactile sensation and an audible noise when a vehicle travels over them, serving as a warning signal to the driver.

As vehicles encounter the rumble strips, the vibrations can effectively prompt drivers to pay closer attention to the road ahead, reducing the likelihood of accidents in critical areas. The placement of rumble strips is strategic, typically situated before significant road changes such as curves, intersections, or construction zones to draw attention to necessary actions a driver must take—like slowing down or preparing to stop.

Other options refer to different scenarios not directly related to the functionality of rumble strips; for example, warning about traffic or indicating speed limits are achieved through various signs and signals rather than the physical feedback that rumble strips provide.