This paper describes an evaluation study that is based on surveys taken from nationwide, random questionnaires held amongst approximately 40 road maintenance authorities. The aim was to assess the effect of parallel policy. The Dutch government developed and implemented parallel policy. This policy also applied to road maintenance authorities. The aim of parallel policy was to support the effect of the introduction of both a revised Traffic Regulations and Road Traffic Signs Code (RVV 1990) and a new Administrative Provisions for Road Traffic Order (BABW) in the Netherlands on November 1, 1991. The following criteria should be met in order to assess compliance to parallel policy: (1) 65% of the road authorities must be aware of the outlines of the new implementation regulations; (2) 65% must have an insight into a conservative and well-considered use of both traffic signs and symbols; and (3) 65% must know the correct procedure to follow for the preparation and implementation of traffic regulations applicable in the new situation. It can be concluded that these three criteria were not, or only partially, satisfied.
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