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They populate the sides of quiet suburban streets, stand at busy intersections and loom large over multi-lane highways. But the traffic signs you see aren't merely aesthetic. They're there to warn you of potential dangers and to give important instructions that will keep you, your passengers and other road users safe.

Why are Traffic Signs Important?

Traffic signs provide valuable information to drivers and other road users. They represent rules that are in place to keep you safe, and help to communicate messages to drivers and pedestrians that can maintain order and reduce accidents. Neglecting them can be dangerous.

Most signs make use of pictures, rather than words, so that they are easy to understand and can be interpreted by people who speak a variety of languages. For this reason, it’s important that you know what each picture represents, and that you use them to inform your driving. Failing to do so could result in a serious accident or a fine.

What Do the Different Traffic Signs Mean?

Traffic signs come in a variety of shapes and colours, and each has a specific meaning. The different shapes and colours are there to help you identify a sign as quickly as possible, without interrupting your driving.

According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation, the various road traffic signs are classified into four main groups and sub-categories, for example:

Regulatory: Control/Command/Prohibition/Reservation

Warning: Road Layout/Direction of Movement

Guidance: Location/Route Markers/Direction

Temporary: Command/Prohibition