What is the height requirement for a shoulder barrier in relation to the tires of vehicles using the road?

• A. At least equal to the height of the tires
• B. At least 1/2 the height of the tires
• C. Not less than 3/4 the height of the tires
• D. At least 1 meter higher than the tires

Answer: (C)

The correct answer is based on safety regulations and best practices for road design, particularly in the context of mining and industrial operations where vehicle safety is paramount. A shoulder barrier that is not less than three-quarters the height of the tires provides a crucial level of protection for vehicles, especially in preventing rollovers or accidents when vehicles stray off the road.

This height requirement ensures that the barrier is substantial enough to effectively limit the potential for vehicles to roll over and to provide a physical deterrent that encourages safe driving behavior. Moreover, a shoulder barrier of this height can help contain eroded materials and prevent debris from entering the roadway, ultimately contributing to overall roadway safety.

In contrast, barriers that are too low may not provide adequate protection, as they may fail to contain a vehicle that slips off the road or could be bypassed easily by vehicles, thus increasing the risk of accidents.