Abstract: An impact attenuator for installation along highways particularly at exit lanes from limited access roads is disclosed. The impact attenuator features the use of one or a plurality of novel crash cushions formed of polyurethane foam having a structure therein to help maintain the integrity of structure. The reinforcement may be a wire basket disposed therein. The attenuator is a device having a plurality of telescoping crash sections that nest upon impact.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a cell used preferably with a guard rail to absorb the impact of a vehicle which crashes into the rail. The cell converts the kinetic energy of the automobile and absorbs it by distortion of the cell. The effect of the cushion is that it redirects the vehicle back to the roadway without causing severe damage to the vehicle guard rail or posts.

Abstract: A crash cushion barrier which is a disposable unit that is being used to protect vehicles when striking sign posts, concrete abutments and the like. The crash cushion may consist of a plurality of lightweight containers made of fiberglas and filled with a compressible mixture of vermiculite. The crash cushions are anchored in front of concrete abutments, posts, or guard rails, and if the cushion is hit forceably head-on by a vehicle, the anchor cables will give way and permit the cushion to compress the enclosed vermiculite mixture to a point where movement of the vehicle has been stopped without being destroyed.