What is the purpose of breakaway posts on road signs?

Breakaway posts on road signs are designed to reduce the impact forces experienced during a collision. When a vehicle strikes a sign mounted on a breakaway post, the post is engineered to break away or collapse upon impact. This design minimizes the risk of injury to vehicle occupants by preventing the sign from becoming a rigid object that could penetrate the vehicle or cause severe damage. By allowing the post to detach, the force of the impact is absorbed, leading to a potentially less severe effect compared to a traditional sign post that remains standing.

The other options do not address the primary safety function of breakaway posts. While enhancing visibility, readability, or providing structural support might be relevant considerations for highway signs, the unique purpose of breakaway posts is specifically to mitigate the consequences of vehicle collisions. This safety feature is crucial for protecting drivers and passengers in various driving environments.