Crash Cushions
Crash cushions, also known as impact attenuators, are safety devices installed on roadways to reduce the severity of vehicle crashes. They are designed to absorb kinetic energy and gradually decelerate a vehicle reducing the potential for serious injuries and fatalities.
Crash cushions are designed to shield the blunt ends of permanent and temporary concrete, steel and plastic barriers.
Crash Cushions FAQs
How do crash cushions work?
Crash cushions absorb the kinetic energy of a colliding vehicle, reducing the force of impact and slowing the vehicle down gradually to prevent severe injuries.
What are the different types of crash cushions?
Crash cushions may be classified as redirective or non-redirective.
What is a redirective crash cushion?
A redirective crash cushion is designed to capture almost all vehicles striking the end of the device and safely decelerate them to a stop. A redirective crash cushion must capture impacting vehicles during angular tests on the end of the system.
What is a non-redirective crash cushion?
Non-redirective crash cushions are designed to allow vehicles impacting near the beginning or nose of the system to safely pass through the unit and travel behind the cushion.
What materials are used for the manufacture of crash cushions?
Crash cushions may be manufactured from metal frames that collapse upon impact, plastic elements that absorb energy or water-filled barriers for temporary installations.
How are crash cushions installed?
Permanent crash cushions are typically anchored to the roadway pavement or a concrete foundation. Temporary crash cushions typically feature water filled cartridges and are freestanding and do not require anchoring.