When Not To Use Breakaway Poles
Breakaway poles should not be used in situations where they
are more hazardous than non-breakaway poles and situations in which
the breakaway feature would be useless. Breakaway poles are not
normally used if:
- substantial pedestrian traffic is expected in the area
- a falling pole could cause more damage than that caused by an automobile striking a rigid pole
- overhead electric lines are too close
- the pole is mounted atop a concrete traffic barrier
- the pole is mounted behind a metal beam guard fence (see following discussions on “Protection of Non-Breakaway Poles” and “Placement of Non-Breakaway Poles”).
Other considerations frequently come into play. The preceding
list is provided only as an overview.