Abstract: An energy absorbing system comprising a plurality of break-away post elements sequentially spaced to be sheared off by impact of a vehicle. Each post element individually absorbs and decelerates the impacting vehicle at a pre-determined rate that in multiple successive impacts slows the vehicle to a stop before the barrier or to an acceptable speed within the design requirements for impact with a barrier.

Abstract: A highway guardrail system comprises a plurality of posts; a plurality of spacers attached to respective posts; and a rail attached to the spacers. The post comprises a tube formed from sheet material, including overlapping portions facing toward the highway when installed; and a plurality of connectors to join said overlapping portions together. The spacer comprises a member formed from sheet metal blank including a rail attachment portion, a post attachment portion and a bridge portion connecting said rail and post attachment portions. The rail attachment portions and the bridge portion form an acute angle in plan view; and the bridge portion is tapered from wide to narrow toward the post attachment portion. The rail is tubular formed from sheet metal, including a U-shaped member and a sheet metal plate both having overlapping portions; and a plurality of connectors to join said overlapping portions together.