Traffic signs are differentiated into the following categories:
Mandatory Signs
- Make steering of traffic easier
- Examples: stop, speed limit and no parking signs
Cautionary Signs
- Symbolize road conditions
- Examples: steep ascent and narrow road ahead signs
Informatory Signs
- Guide for various landmarks, distances and alternate routes
- Examples: petrol pump and hospital signs
Studies reveal only 52% Indians identify road signs and their meanings
News of road accidents in India is an everyday issue and a number of factors, from texting while driving to driving under the influence, are responsible for this. Moreover, ignorance or lack of knowledge about road signs is also a major contributing factor to this problem. This aspect is further highlighted by the fact that the awareness of what road signs mean is as low as 52% (http://www.crridom.gov.in/content/survey-awareness-traffic-safety-among-drivers-delhi-india) among Indians in the national capital.
Top 10 Lesser-known Road Signs
Along with drivers, it is crucial that every pedestrian knows the meanings of road signs too. Here are the top 10 lesser-known road signs with their pictorial representations:
1. Give Way
This sign instructs the driver to slow down and let other vehicles or pedestrians pass. It is usually present at the junction of a traffic signal to help traffic move smoothly.
2. No Stopping or Parking
This sign indicates 'no stopping or parking vehicles' even temporarily and 'no standing'
3. Round About
This sign specifies that the road has a forthcoming circular intersection. The driver is expected to take a turn around it only when there is a safe gap in the traffic and no risk of a crash, and then proceed to the desired street.
4. Dangerous Dip
This sign represents a sharp dip in the road advising traffic to slow down.
5. Barrier Ahead
This sign signifies a gate-controlled entry ahead such as a toll and hence advises drivers to slow down.
6. Slippery Road
This sign indicates that the road ahead is slippery, which is especially helpful during monsoons or snowfall.
7. No Through Road and No Through Side Road
These signs indicate the layout of the road. The 'No Through Road' sign informs us that the road has no exit, while the 'No Through Side Road' sign signifies that the main lane has no side road to escape the traffic.
8. Crossroad Ahead
This sign is usually present at the start of a road and indicates a crossover of lanes where a large volume of traffic is likely to cause congestion.
9. Concealed Driveway Ahead
This sign helps drivers take precautionary measures for a driveway ahead that may be obscured in some way.
10. Dual Roadway Begins/Ends Ahead
The Dual Roadway Begins sign is displayed when a single road bifurcates into a dual road, while the Dual Roadway Ends sign is displayed when dual roads come together to form a single road.
Although these are just some of the lesser-known road signs, it is imperative that drivers are aware of every sign. In addition to these, there are distinctive signs for two wheelers and four wheelers such as signs to wear helmets and seatbelts respectively. There is also special software being developed to detect traffic signs and indicate likewise to drivers. Though it is limited to high-end cars in Europe for now, soon every human behind the wheel might experience it.
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