Traffic sign: Meaning (information, definition, explanation, facts)

Many countries place signs on the side of roads, called traffic signs or road signs, to deliver information to passing motorists. Different languages cause barriers, so international signs with symbols have been developed in Europe and adopted in most countries and areas in the world. Annex 1 of the Convention on Road Signs and Signals, of 8 November 1968 has 8 categories of signs:

• A. Danger warning signs
• B. Priority signs
• C. Prohibitory or restrictive signs
• D. Mandatory signs
• E. Special regulation signs
• F. Information, facilities or service signs
• G. Direction, position or indication signs
• H. Additional panels

Countries and areas categorize road signs in different ways. The categories in the United States are:

• Regulatory signs
• Warning signs
• Marker signs
• Guide and informational signs
• Recreational and cultural interest igns
• Signs for bicycle facilities
• Construction signs
• Railroad crossing signs
• School signs
• Civil defense signs

See also: Street sign theft