Traffic Signs and Signals

Traffic Signs

Traffic signs are there to regulate traffic, warn about hazards and to guide the road users. Understanding traffic signs is essential. We should have a proper knowledge of traffic signs. The government has made it mandatory for a person who wants to obtain driving license to be well versed with the traffic signs. Traffic signs prevent the undesirable risks posed on the road to drivers and passengers in the vehicle. There are three types of traffic signs.

Mandatory Signs – give order and need to be followed strictly. They are generally in circular in shape.

Cautionary Signs – warn the user regarding road situation ahead. They are generally, in triangular shape.

Informatory signs – give information regarding directions, destinations, etc., They are generally in rectangular shape.

Traffic Signals

Traffic lights is a signalling device that is positioned at a road intersection, pedestrian crossing to indicate when it is safe to drive, ride or walk using a universal colour code.

Red – this signal indicates to stop behind the stop line.

Amber (Yellow) – this signal indicates stop. Do not pass through or start until green shows. If, by mistake, you are caught in yellow signal in the middle of a large road crossing, continue with care and do not accelerate in panic.

Green – this signal indicates you may go if the way is clear.

Steady Green Arrow Signal – this signal may be provided in addition to the full green signal. This indicates to proceed with caution in the direction the arrow points.

Flashing Red Signal - it means to come to complete stop. Proceed only when the way is clear.

Flashing Yellow Signal – it indicates to slow down and proceed with caution.

Lights at Night:

At night, when traffic has dwindled, the traffic police might switch off the signals in many intersections which means proceed with caution but no need to stop.