Straight pavement edge drop-off on roadways have been linked to many serious crashes, including fatal collisions. To mitigate the unsafe pavement drop-off a 1V:1.75H (approximately 30°) safety edge on pavements should be installed when paving or resurfacing roadway. This allows drivers who drift off highways to return to the pavement safely.

In addition to creating a safer driving surface, the safety edge also contributes to an increased pavement durability by reducing edge raveling. During design, the engineer should include the safety edge in typical sections and pavement quantities. See for an example of a safety edge. See the webpage for additional guidance.