It is important that the form be filled out with a pencil. Be sure to write as neatly and legibly as possible. Make a special effort when writing M's and N's as they can often be confusing to read. A red pencil would be easier to read.
Travel between 15-20 mph to be able to detect distresses. If unsure or unable to determine a type of distress, pull off the pavement to inspect the condition.
The raters should thoroughly familiarize themselves with the computer printout for their areas. Some initial time should also be spent relating the computer listing of roadway sections to the county maps.
Use the most current county maps while conducting the survey. This will result in less confusion with new roads, SR number changes, etc. The rater should mark sections of the maps as they are rated. This will allow the rater to better visualize what has not been surveyed.
All newly constructed or paved (formerly unpaved) roads are to be surveyed even if they are not on the map or printout.
Raters will find the printout simpler to read when traveling a road in the same direction that it is mileposted. However, many times it is necessary to travel a section in the opposite direction than it is mileposted. Care should be taken that the distress information is filled in on the proper line.
Be safety conscious at all times while on the road. Use car warning (hazard) lights and a yellow flashing light on your car roof. Always be aware of other traffic in relation to your slower speed.
Raters should get out of the car and measure rutting at least once a day using a straight edge and ruler. This is to give the rater a better feel for the severity of rutting.
Raters should ride sections toward the sun so that cracking will be more visible.
IMPORTANT. Do not survey any route by starting in the middle. Start a route at either one end or the other.
NC DOT
NC DOH
NC GOV
