ARE REFLECTORIZED LICENSE PLATES A GOOD IDEA

An appraisal was conducted of the studies and reports which have been published dealing with the topic of reflectorized plates. Also reviewed were some human factors considerations in the driving task that appear to be relevant to reflectorization, as well as the appropriateness of cost-benefit analysis as a means of evaluating the worth of license plate reflectorization as a safety measure. Finally, the problems of conducting controlled studies of the effects of reflectorized plates were discussed, and some suggestions made as to ways in which the validity of such studies can be improved. The present authors agree with previous studies, and feel that, based on the evidence available at the present time, reflectorized plates are, a "good idea," and unless and until a definitive study and cost-effectiveness analysis are conducted that provide convincing evidence to the contrary, universal adoption of relecttorized programs is to be recommended.