Botts' dots

Botts' Dots are non-reflective raised pavement markers used in road marking. Named after their inventor, Dr. Elbert Dysart Botts, they are primarily used to provide tactile and auditory feedback to drivers when moving across travel lanes.

History

Botts' Dots were invented by Dr. Elbert Dysart Botts, a chemical engineer working for the California Department of Transportation, also known as Caltrans. The initial concept was developed in the 1950s, with the first practical application of the dots occurring in 1966.

Design and Usage

Botts' Dots are typically round, made of a hard ceramic material, and are adhered to the pavement with a strong epoxy. They are usually white or yellow to match the striping on the road. The dots are designed to create a distinct noise and vibration when a vehicle's tires pass over them, alerting the driver that they are crossing into another lane. This can be particularly useful in poor visibility conditions, such as fog or heavy rain.

In addition to their use in lane demarcation, Botts' Dots are also used to mark the locations of fire hydrants, and in some areas, to indicate the presence of pedestrian crosswalks.

Criticisms and Alternatives

While Botts' Dots have been widely used in many parts of the world, they have also been subject to criticism. Some argue that they can become dislodged and pose a hazard to vehicles, particularly motorcycles. Others point out that they can be difficult to see in certain light conditions, and that they can cause damage to snowplows.

As a result, alternative road marking systems have been developed. These include rumble strips, which are grooves cut into the road surface, and reflective pavement markers, which use a reflective material to enhance visibility.

See Also

• Road surface marking
• Traffic calming
• Dr. Elbert Dysart Botts