We are pleased to report that the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) has added Carmanah’s rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RRFBs) to its Qualified Product List (QPL). This means all three of our current Gen-III systems (the R920-E, R920-F, and SC315-G) can now be used without restriction in Georgia state and local government safety projects.
Carmanah’s RRFBs offer agencies a proven solution for enhancing pedestrian visibility and driver compliance at mid-block and other unsignalized crosswalks. According to the FHWA, RRFBs can result in motorist yielding rates as high as 98% and reduce crashes by 47%.
RRFB light bars are generally mounted alongside standard MUTCD crosswalk signage (including school and trail warning signs) and feature high-intensity amber LEDs that flash erratically when activated by a pedestrian. Studies have demonstrated the lights are easily visible to drivers both day and night—even when wet roads, poor visibility, and headlight glare combine to create dangerous conditions. The FHWA has granted RRFBs interim approval (IA-21) and they are widely expected to be included in the next version of the MUTCD.
“This approval by GDOT reinforces the capabilities, quality, and value of our RRFBs,” said Carmanah’s Director of Business Development Aaron Lockwood. “We’re excited to be included in the QPL and look forward to working with cities and our distributors to improve pedestrian and driver safety in the state.”
GDOT’s QPL, like other approved/qualified product lists issued by DOTs across the country, is designed to aid engineers in their selection of products and companies that meet GDOT specifications. The evaluation process is conducted by a committee of GDOT staff and includes a variety of factors, including the quality of materials, performance, and cost effectiveness.
You can find Carmanah’s RRFBs on GDOT’s QPL 48 under Flashing Beacon Assemblies & Accessories, as well as on our website.