On a divided highway, how far behind should flags be set up for safety?

Setting up flags for safety on a divided highway is crucial for ensuring the safety of both the workers and the drivers. The recommended distance for placing warning flags is typically 200 feet behind the work area. This distance allows sufficient time for drivers to react to the warning and adjust their speed or lane position accordingly. By providing an ample warning distance, it helps to minimize the risk of accidents and enhances safety in construction or maintenance zones.

While shorter distances, such as 10 feet or 100 feet, may still provide some warning, they often do not allow enough time for drivers to respond, especially at higher speeds commonly found on divided highways. A distance of 500 feet may be excessive and could lead to unnecessary confusion or miscommunication about the work zone. Therefore, 200 feet strikes a balance between being sufficiently far enough to warn drivers while remaining practical for setup and visibility.