Introduction

Unlike railways, roads are not uniform and homogeneous. While driving through a roadway that is a public space, you need to frequently negotiate through curves, junctions, construction zones, sensitive zones (schools, hospitals, etc.), and interact with other vehicular modes and/or pedestrians. Thus, while driving, for enhancing your safety as well as the safety of other road users, you need to be constantly aware and stay informed of changing road features, roadside activities, etc. In this regard, road signs are our true friends on the roads as they assist us in several ways for a safe and comfortable drive. Road signs provide a warning to us of any change in the general pattern of the road in advance, guiding us to operate safely and efficiently in various situations and also informing us of different road-related rules and regulations. So, the major purpose of the road sign is two-fold:
a) To endorse safe, efficient and orderly driving and movement to promote road safety.
b) To provide information, guidance and caution about the necessary regulations of roads.

Principles of Road Signs

Five basic principles govern the use of road signs for all road categories open to public travel. These are:
a) Road signs are provided to fulfil your needs while driving.
b) You should give attention to the road signs.
c) Road signs are designed in such a way that a clear and simple meaning is conveyed to you.
d) You should respect the road signs and act accordingly.
e) Road signs are placed in such a way that you get adequate time for response and perform a manoeuvre.

Placement, Operation and Uniformity of Road Signs

The road signs are placed within your view and positioned concerning the location or situation to aid in conveying proper meaning. The road signs are located and made sufficiently legible to provide adequate response time so that you can read and take necessary action at the operating speed. The road signs are also made uniform to simplify your tasks as they help in recognising and understanding, thereby you can take necessary action while driving and avoid any unsafe or unintended situation in a much shorter time.