Road Signals are a common part of our daily lives, guiding vehicles and pedestrians safely through intersections and helping to maintain order on the road. These signals come in a variety of forms, each with its own unique purpose and design. In this article, we will examine the different types of Road Signals that you may encounter during your daily commute and their functions and importance in maintaining road safety.
The Standard Three-Light Road Signal
The most common type of Road Signal around the world is the standard three-light signal, which uses the colors red, yellow and green. Each colour has a specific meaning:
Red: This indicates that all roads must stop. It is used to control vehicles and pedestrians and is usually found at intersections.
Yellow: This color indicates caution. It appears before a green or red light and warns drivers to slow down and prepare to stop.
Green: When the green light is on, it allows the Road to proceed. It indicates the right of way for vehicles and pedestrians, indicating that it is safe to proceed.
Arrow Signals
Arrow signals are often used at intersections to control specific lanes of Road. These are mainly found in large cities and help manage complex Road flows:
Green Arrow: A green arrow indicates that Road in the respective lane may proceed in the direction of the arrow, even if the primary trafic Signal is showing a different color.
Yellow Arrow: Like the yellow light in the standard signal, a yellow arrow indicates caution. Drivers should prepare to stop when the light turns red.
Red Arrow: A red arrow means that Road in the respective lane must come to a complete stop and cannot proceed in the direction of the hand.
Blinking Road Signals
Flashing Road Signals are often used to draw attention to certain situations or to indicate a malfunction in a regular signal. Here are some common scenarios:
Blinking Red: A flashing red light is like a stop sign. This means that drivers and pedestrians should come to a complete stop before proceeding when it is safe to do so.
Blinking Yellow: A flashing yellow light serves as a warning. It is usually used to warn drivers to slow down and be prepared to stop if necessary.
Flashing Red and Yellow: This combination is used at intersections with low Road volumes. This requires drivers to treat the intersection as a four-way stop.
Pedestrian Signals
Road Signals also include signals designed specifically for pedestrians to ensure their safety while crossing roads.
Walk Signal: A white or green pedestrian icon indicates that pedestrians may begin crossing the street.
Flashing Don’t Walk: A flashing orange or red hand icon warns pedestrians not to initiate a crossing. If already in a crosswalk, pedestrians should move to the other side.
Solid Don’t Walk: A solid orange or red hand icon means pedestrians should not enter the crosswalk and wait for a walk signal.
Railroad Crossing Signals
These signals are important to alert drivers to the presence of a railway crossing:
Crossbuck Sign: This is a large white “X” with the words “Railroad Crossing.” It serves as a warning sign.
Flashing Lights and Gates: At active railroad crossings, flashing red lights and lowering gates indicate that a train is approaching. Vehicles must come to a complete stop, and pedestrians must not enter the crossing.
Visit 15 Passenger Van Rental for more information!