Anti-crash lane barrier with self-centering hinges

Abstract

A lane barrier system comprises a plurality of pivotally interconnected modules adapted to be transferred on a roadway. Each module has sidewalls that taper upwardly and inwardly to intersect a T-shaped upper portion having undercut surfaces extending laterally outwardly from a central vertical axis of the module and past critical impact points on the module. The sidewalls and undercut surfaces are configured to aid in the precise deflection, guidance and 'capturing' of the bumper of a passenger vehicle or light duty truck when the bumper impacts the module to prevent the vehicle from catapulting over the system. A reinforcement assembly is encased within a concrete casting of each module. Each adjacent pair of modules are pivotally connected together to permit them to elongate or contract to assume a composite varied length different than a normal, nominal length when a load is imposed thereon and to automatically return to their nominal length when the load is removed. This controlled elongation or contraction of the lane barrier is particularly advantageous when the barrier is positioned at various radii on a curved roadway.