Why Can’t You Just Do Your Own Traffic Control?
When planning a construction project, organizing a public event, or managing roadwork, many people consider handling traffic control themselves to save money. It seems easy enough—put out a few cones, assign someone to direct cars, maybe throw up a few signs. But here’s the truth: doing your own traffic control without professional guidance is risky, dangerous, and often illegal.
Traffic control is about more than just managing traffic flow. It’s about safety, liability, legal compliance, and protecting lives—drivers, pedestrians, and workers alike. In Canada, traffic control regulations are strict and for good reason. Professionals are trained to set up and manage traffic patterns in a way that reduces accidents, ensures legal compliance, and allows work or events to go on without unnecessary risk. Trying to DIY your own traffic control plan could cost far more than hiring the experts.
Let’s look at what makes traffic control so complex, what’s at stake, and why trusted traffic control companies like Barricade Traffic Services are the smart—and safe—choice.
Professional Traffic Control Is Regulated for a Reason
Traffic control is governed by detailed provincial and municipal laws. In Ontario, for example, any activity that impacts a roadway requires a traffic protection plan that aligns with the Ontario Traffic Manual (OTM), specifically Book 7. This manual outlines everything from where signs should be placed to what personal protective equipment (PPE) flaggers must wear. It includes diagrams, spacing requirements, signage specifications, and time-of-day considerations.
If you don't follow these guidelines—and you aren’t a licensed traffic control provider—you’re not just breaking the rules. You're putting people in harm’s way.
The Dangers of Inexperience
People often underestimate how unpredictable road users can be. Drivers may speed, ignore signs, get distracted, or become aggressive in detour zones. If your signage isn’t clear or properly placed, if your cones or barricades aren’t set up in a way that channels traffic safely, one small mistake can lead to serious consequences.
Inexperienced flaggers may react slowly in emergencies, miscommunicate hand signals, or stand in unsafe positions. Without the right training, PPE, or backup equipment, a DIY team is exposed to real danger—and so is everyone else on the road.
Insurance, Liability, and Lawsuits
Let’s say you set up your own road signage for a construction project. An accident happens. A pedestrian is injured or a car collides with a worker. If your setup doesn’t meet provincial standards, you could be held legally responsible. Insurance companies might refuse coverage because the work wasn’t done by certified traffic control professionals. That means the full weight of a lawsuit or damage claim could land on you or your company.
Traffic control companies like Barricade Traffic Services carry the proper insurance, licenses, and documentation. They understand the legal landscape and take on the liability so you don’t have to.
It’s Not Just About Equipment
Another misconception is that you can just buy or rent a few signs and cones and be set. But traffic control is not just about owning the right equipment—it’s about knowing how and when to use it. Professionals assess sightlines, vehicle speed, road conditions, pedestrian access, work zones, and time of day. They consider alternate routes, communicate with municipal authorities, and stay updated on regulation changes.
At Barricade Traffic Services, every project begins with a custom traffic plan. Our team of trained professionals assesses the site, maps out the safest and most efficient setup, delivers and installs the equipment, and manages traffic throughout the duration of the project or event. That level of service and knowledge simply can’t be replicated by a DIY attempt.
Special Events and the Illusion of Simplicity
DIY traffic control often comes up during community events—festivals, parades, sports games, fundraisers. These events might take place in parking lots, on quiet roads, or during low-traffic times. But even then, the risks are real.
People behave differently at events. They might be distracted, unfamiliar with the area, or influenced by crowds. Emergency vehicle access must be maintained. Pedestrian flow needs to be safe and efficient. Parking management can turn chaotic in a matter of minutes. Without trained personnel and proper signage, things can unravel quickly—and dangerously.
Construction Zones: A High-Risk Environment
Construction zones are among the most dangerous places to attempt DIY traffic control. Workers are focused on their tasks, machinery is loud and obstructs visibility, and debris or uneven surfaces create trip hazards. Drivers passing through may be frustrated by delays or confused by inconsistent signage.
If your traffic control doesn’t redirect vehicles clearly and securely, you risk collisions, injuries, and project delays. Worse, you may be violating regulations that could result in fines, stop-work orders, or denied insurance claims.
Professional traffic control companies like Barricade understand how to maintain flow, protect workers, and meet legal standards, no matter how complex the project is.
Emergencies and Liability During Night Work
Nighttime work is another high-risk zone where DIY traffic control is especially dangerous. Reduced visibility, drowsy drivers, and lighting challenges make the stakes even higher. Professionals use high-visibility signs, LED lighting, flashing arrow boards, reflective PPE, and special barricades to ensure everyone can see—and react—appropriately.
Barricade Traffic Services offers 24/7 traffic control for emergency projects, night work, or unexpected road closures. We deploy experienced crews who can handle urgent situations while protecting the public and your team.
Rent vs. DIY vs. Hiring the Pros
Renting traffic control equipment may seem like a middle ground, but it still doesn’t solve the problem if you don’t know how to use it properly. Buying equipment outright is costly and impractical for most companies that don’t specialize in traffic control. And both options still leave you with liability.
Hiring a professional traffic control company like Barricade means peace of mind. You get skilled staff, certified plans, properly maintained equipment, and round-the-clock support. Whether you’re managing a one-day event or a six-month construction project, we scale to meet your needs.
Why Barricade Traffic Services is the Best Choice
Barricade Traffic Services is a trusted name in traffic control across Ontario. We provide fully certified, insured, and experienced crews who understand how to manage safety in every situation—from small community events to major highway closures. Our team works directly with municipalities, contractors, and private clients to deliver safe, compliant, and efficient traffic control.
We offer everything from flagging crews and signage to message boards, lane closures, detours, and emergency response services. Our approach is personalized, fast, and reliable—and our reputation speaks for itself.
We’re not just a supplier. We’re your traffic safety partner.
Final Word: Don’t Risk It
Trying to handle traffic control on your own isn’t just risky—it’s reckless. The road is a dangerous place, and the cost of a mistake can be measured in lives, lawsuits, and lost time. Instead of cutting corners, work with professionals who understand the regulations, equipment, and strategy required to keep everyone safe.
When it comes to traffic control, Barricade Traffic Services is the partner you can count on. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help with your next project or event—and why choosing trained professionals is always the right move.
