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Great News for the RRFB 

RRFB from SA-SO Signs & Safety

Great news for pedestrian and traffic safety. The Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) again has interim MUTCD approval! 

In 2017 SA-SO Signs & Safety became aware that Rick Jones of Stop Experts had filed a patent infringement case on the flashing pattern of the RRFB. As a result many cities and towns put a halt to purchasing RRFBs. We also learned The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), who deems traffic and safety devices as MUTCD compliant, revoked the RRFB's interim MUTCD approval. 

In 2018, Carmanah Technologies Corporation, who is also a manufacturer of traffic and safety products, purchased the RRFB patent from Rick Jones. As a result, Carmanah “disclaimed the patents,” which allowed it to be put in the public domain. What this means is that now all traffic and safety companies are allowed to manufacture and distribute the RRFB without threat of lawsuit. RRFBs have been proven to increase pedestrian awareness and reduce injuries and deaths in communities throughout our country and nationwide.

Furthermore, in March, FHWA announced a new interim approval for the use of RRFBs. The new interim approval IA-21 replaced the original one issued to Rick Jones.

"As you’re aware, the RRFB under Interim Approval 11 was rescinded in December due to patents issued and pending. The FHWA has been informed and has confirmed that the patents have been expressly abandoned, and the RRFB is once again eligible for provisional use through an Interim Approval. Please note that this is a new Interim Approval, which has been updated to reflect more recent research and experience with the device. Agencies wishing to install new RRFBs will have to apply for the new Interim Approval, even if they had approval under IA-11." -Kevin Sylvester of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) in his update to National Committee on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (NCUTCD) and (American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials) AASHTO
 
Long story short - This is good news for vendors, like us, and great news for pedestrian safety. We are grateful for all of the parties that worked together to make this happen.
 

If you'd like more information on the Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon or any of our solar powered traffic calming devices, please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 972-641-4911 today!