What is the purpose of taper lengths in lane closures?

• A. To gradually merge traffic from the closed lane to the open lane while maintaining safety, based on speed and geometry.
• B. To shorten the overall work zone length.
• C. To increase the number of signs.
• D. To eliminate the need for flaggers.

Answer: (A)

Taper lengths create a transition zone that lets drivers move from the closed lane into the open lane in a controlled, predictable way. The length of the taper is chosen based on how fast the road is and the road’s geometry, so that vehicles have enough distance and time to safely merge without abrupt braking or swerving. This gradual merge reduces rear-end crashes and lane-change conflicts and helps maintain smooth traffic flow through the work zone.

Shortening the work zone, increasing signs, or removing the need for flaggers aren’t the primary purposes of taper lengths. Tapers are about providing safe, orderly merging space; flaggers may still be needed depending on other conditions.