No to traffic signs?

[khumar huseynova]

Just read an article in Toronto Star about John Staddon's talk on cutting down on the number of traffic signs placed in roads, at intersections etc. Apparently removing the signs, esp from busy intersections, forces dirvers to focus more on the road than on the signs. The rationale is the expectation from the drivers, i.e., expecting them to be more responsible than stupid (sic), and making right decisions instead of being distracted by the signs that tell them what to do. Apparently, this is being practiced in Europe (England for ex.), and it's led to reduction of traffic accidents by 40%.
Obviously, there are many other factors in this equation that might have led to fewer accidents. I am not familiar with the studies in this field and was wondering if anyone knew. What does the evidence suggest? Anyone in trauma has looked at this particular issue (i.e., association bw traffic signals and MVAs) recently and compared Europe to NAmerica? Apparently this is also practiced in Fl. Would appreciate yoru thoguhts.
P.S. John Staddon is a psychologist at DukeU. 


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