Data-Driven Approach to Designing Safety Service-Patrol Vehicles in Florida

Florida’s Road Ranger program plays a critical role in incident management but lacks a standardized vehicle design, resulting in inconsistent visibility and public recognition. This study presents a stakeholder-informed, data-driven approach to developing consistent design principles for safety service-patrol (SSP) vehicles in Florida. The methodology included a nationwide survey of 44 agencies, a review of national and international practices, and a series of stakeholder workshops. Based on these inputs, three key design principles were established: enhancing safety, improving recognition, and strengthening branding. Three vehicle-design prototypes were created and evaluated through post-design surveys of district program managers. The preferred design featured a fluorescent yellow-green base with blue accenting and received broad support for its visibility and clarity. This methodological framework and study findings offer actionable guidance for agencies seeking to implement cohesive SSP vehicle designs that improve responder safety and reduce motorist perceptual ambiguity.