Raod Cross barriers physically separate opposing traffic streams and help stop vehicles travelling into opposing traffic lanes. They are often built on the centre of wide urban multi-lane roads where they can be used to stop pedestrians crossing the road at unsafe places.

Raod Cross barriers can also be used to limit turning options for vehicles, and shift these movements to safer locations. Raod Cross barriers used as 'safety barriers' (designed to safely stop or redirect vehicles that hit them) are usually stronger than median barriers used mainly to direct traffic flows or discourage pedestrians from crossing. Raod Cross barriers can be made of a range of materials including concrete, steel, and cables.