A consistent alignment is important because the relationship that exists between
consistency and safety. The inconsistencies that exist on a roadway can produce a sudden change
in the characteristic of the roadway, which can surprise motorists and lead to speed errors.
These speed errors result in critical driving maneuvers for motorists and an unfavorable level of
accident risks. These design inconsistencies arise when the general character of alignment
changes between segments of the roadway. A consistent alignment would ensure that “most
drivers would be able to operate safely at their desired speed along the entire alignment.”