The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is b) Median barrier.
A median barrier is a critical safety feature installed on divided highways and multi-lane roads. Its primary and specific function is to separate opposing lanes of traffic to prevent head-on collisions. These barriers are placed in the median, which is the strip of land or space between the lanes of traffic moving in opposite directions. When a driver loses control of their vehicle, the median barrier is designed to absorb the impact and redirect the vehicle, preventing it from crossing over into the path of oncoming cars. This containment significantly reduces the likelihood of crossover accidents, which are among the most severe and fatal types of crashes.
The other options are less accurate for the specific function described in the question. A shoulder barrier is typically placed on the outer edge, or shoulder, of a road. Its purpose is to prevent vehicles from veering off the roadway into a hazard, such as a steep ditch, a body of water, or a fixed object like a bridge support. It does not separate opposing traffic.
The term “traffic barrier” is a very general category. It includes various types of barriers, such as median barriers, shoulder barriers, guardrails, and temporary barriers used in work zones. While a median barrier is a type of traffic barrier, the question asks for the specific device that protects opposite lanes. Therefore, “median barrier” is the most precise and appropriate answer. Because a shoulder barrier does not perform this function, the option “All of the above” is also incorrect.
