Gating versus Non-Gating: When you hear an attenuator is “gating” or “non-gating,” it means an attenuator that is designed to allow a colliding vehicle to enter the clear zone where it can decelerate safely before coming into contact with any hazards. Non-gating attenuators fold away (or gate) when impacted from the side to allow vehicles to pass safely. They are ideal when the clear zone is large enough to accommodate a colliding vehicle safely (at least 75 feet x 20 feet). Non-gating attenuators require a smaller clear zone as they do not fold but work towards slowing the colliding vehicle and are typically seen in the medians and shoulders of the road.
Excerpt courtesy of Hill & Smith
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