Like Illumination, ITS structures are a roadside obstacle and must be checked against the appropriate clear zone requirements to ensure that the proper safety treatment is provided when needed.

Many ITS devices require specific placement and configuration requirements to perform properly. However, accessibility to these devices must be factored in when determining the location. Adequate access must be provided within the State ROW for department-maintained ITS systems. Elements such as cameras, data equipment, cabinets, dynamic message signs, and ground boxes must be accessible by maintenance vehicles and maintenance personnel. Where practical, it is desirable for the ITS system to be accessed without disrupting existing traffic.

Sight distances must be checked for dynamic message signs to ensure that the structure is visible to motorists for the length of time necessary to properly comprehend the more complex messages and that they have adequate time to react to what the sign is communicating.

Enhanced ITS devices may increase the safety of highway facilities. The addition of dynamic message signs to high-speed roadways may increase safety by alerting drivers to unexpected road conditions. Unexpected road conditions may include construction activities, lane closures, crashes, hazardous road conditions, severe weather alerts, and changes in traffic patterns along evacuation routes (i.e., contraflow).

Enhanced ITS devices should also be considered on non-freeway facilities in urban or urban core contexts with a high frequency of special events. Special event management may be necessary for stadiums, convention centers, concert halls, racetracks, marathons, and bicycle races. Special events may draw unusually high volumes of vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic in a short period of time. Dynamic message signs may be used to facilitate frequent short-term changes in traffic patterns (i.e., contraflow) and allow for the safe and efficient ingress and egress of traffic.