The Different Colours of Road Signs and What They Mean

Learning how to drive does not only necessitate you getting behind a steering wheel and start. There is so much you need to master before you qualify to get a driving licence. You need to study your country’s rules and regulations and also know of all the road signs and what they represent. All regions around the world use thermoplastic marking in different colours to aid motorists while on the road. But colours are also used on the varying road signs, and below are the exact hues plus a definition of what they depict.

  • Red And White Signs

These are the signs that must be followed by all road users. They are meant to ensure the safety of all motorists. The most common red sign is the stop sign mostly found on road junctions. They are put there so that the driver may have a look around before they proceed. Others include signs forbidding turns, stoppings parking and indicating no through ways.

  • Yellow Signs

Just as the umber light in the traffic light lining, yellow signs are cautionary signs. They are meant to warn the road user as to what they might be facing in the road ahead. Examples are falling rocks, sinking bridge and fog ahead. These conditions are not always a guarantee to occur, but they are prone to happen in the regions indicated.

  • Green Signs

Counter to belief, green does not always mean go, not every green sign on the road symbolizes a go. On the contrary, they are also used on directional signs intended to guide a motorist on the distance they are yet to cover before reaching their destination. Some countries use green signs to name the streets. Such signs are mainly found on highways and major city roads.

  • Orange Signs

Roads, just like any structure, face wear and tear after their usage for a long time. The tarmac may wear out and form potholes, and some roads sink in. And on that note, they do need repair and maintenance once in a while. To indicate such construction is underway, the contractors use orange signs. Orange is mainly preferred as it is a highly visible colour. Diversions and detours markings are a standard on ongoing road construction. 

  • Blue Signs

Driving on highways where the sign of life is scarce, and the traffic is light can be tiresome and boring. And for that reason, one may need to refresh, take a breather and have a hearty meal. And in such a case, coming across a blue coloured sign is heaven-sent. Blue symbols are used to show drivers and other road users where to find basic services. That includes restaurants, hotels, hospitals, and petrol stations, among others.

  • Brown Signs

Last but not least, we have the rare brown signs. They are termed limited because they are only found within several states. And they symbolize the presence of public recreational areas. These include parks, cultural points of interest, botanical gardens and important historical sites.