What defines a freeway?

A freeway is defined as a major road designed for high-speed vehicular traffic, which typically features specific design characteristics meant to enhance safety and efficiency. One of the key features of a freeway is that it is a divided corridor, which means that there is a physical separation between opposing lanes of traffic, minimizing the risk of head-on collisions. Additionally, freeways generally have at least two lanes in each direction to accommodate a high volume of vehicles and ensure smooth traffic flow.

Moreover, freeways are designed without at-grade intersections, traffic signals, or property access points, which differentiates them from other types of roads. This structure allows for uninterrupted travel at higher speeds, which is crucial for the effectiveness of a freeway as part of the transportation system.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the necessary characteristics of a freeway. A rural road with no traffic signs lacks the design and structural features inherent to freeways. Similarly, a highway with many intersections does not align with the freeway definition, as such intersections create potential points of conflict and reduce the speed and flow of traffic. A one-way street also does not encompass the design principles or functional purpose of a freeway, as one-way streets are often found in urban areas and serve different traffic management roles.

Thus,