Abstract: A breakaway safety sign support post for obtaining predictable and reliable separation of an upper post section from a lower post section anchored in a substrate, when the post is struck by a vehicle. In a specific construction, the lower post section is adapted to be imbedded in the ground, with an upper end projecting a predetermined limited distance above the surface of the ground. The upper, post section is secured in overlapping, parallel relationship with the lower post section and is secured thereto with frangible fasteners to define a breakaway joint. The post sections each have a U-shaped transverse cross-sectional shape, including a longitudinal center web with a plurality of holes spaced uniformly along its length, and outwardly divergent side walls at opposite sides of the web, terminating in laterally outwardly projecting flanges.

Abstract: A sign post constructed of an upper channel section nested with a lower channel section at a frangible joint designed so when the sign post is struck by a vehicle, failure of the joint will occur in a predictable and consistent manner. The channel sections are preferably formed of stock channel material having a transverse cross-section in the general shape of a hat, including a longitudinally extending flat center web and outwardly divergent side walls. When the channel sections are nested together, the side walls of adjoining sections are in contact with one another, while the web portions remain spaced apart. In the present invention, the channel sections are connected together with a fastener in combination with a spacer that is engaged between the web portions to provide a reliable and strong breakaway connection.