The different shapes and what the mean.
There are three different shaped traffic signs and the each tell us something different
TRIANGLE SIGNS – Warnings.
All Triangular signs are RED – and the are WARNING signs.
For example
Warning – Traffic lights
Warning – Roundabout
Warning – Crossroads (Priority indicated by the thickness of the lines)
CIRCULAR SIGNS – Giving orders.
Red Circles or Rings tell you what you MUST NOT do.
For example.
No Motor vehicles – you MUST NOT enter road if in/on a Motorized Vehicle).
No Overtaking – you MUST NOT overtake on this stretch of road. (The same sign with a line through signifies the restriction has finished) .
No Entry – you MUST NOT enter the road from this side.
Blue Circles are usually mean something you MUST do
For example.
Keep left – you MUST keep Left.
Minimum speed 30 – you MUST travel at at least 30mph (if it is safe to do so).
Roundabout – you MUST travel Clockwise around the roundabout.
RECTANGULAR SIGNS – Information.
Blue rectangular signs are used for giving Information. (except on Motorways when they are for giving directions).
For example.
Arrow pointing up – One Way Only
This advises a Low bridge ahead, it includes a Red Ring (Must Not) sign. Your vehicle MUST NOT be taller than the maximum height
This shows the start of a Bus/Cycle lane and also it’s hours of operation.
Motorway examples
Motorway – The Motorway starts here
Motorway exit sign giving directions
Green rectangular signs are used for directions on Primary (Main) Routes.
White rectangular signs are used for directions on Secondary Routes.
STOP AND GIVEWAY.
Give way, and the corresponding road markings – You must give way to traffic on the road you are about to join, but if clear you may continue on with out stopping.
STOP! Your vehicle MUST come to a COMPLETE STOP at the junction. You must also give way to the traffic on the road you are about to join.
OTHER IMPORTANT SIGNS.
National speed limit applies – 60mph (or 70mph on Motorways and Dual carriageways)
No Stopping – Not even to drop some off.
No waiting – You can drop someone off, but must not wait. (This one is also in a white information box that shows it’s hours of operation.
For a more detailed look at Traffic signs get a copy of Know Your Traffic Signs from the DVSA – Safe driving for life shop
