Sign Sign Everywhere a Sign

You see them everyday, but do you really? Everywhere you drive, traffic control devices are there to help you navigate the roads safely and efficiently.

Signs and signals come in various shapes, sizes and colours and they all communicate very important messages.

Among the various types of traffic control devices you will find on the road are:

Regulatory Signs

Regulatory signs guide you through traffic movements, indicating what must be done or what cannot be done. These include turning, restricted lane use, speed limits, pedestrian and parking signs. A red circle with a slash on any of these signs means no.

Traffic Control Lights

Traffic control lights help make for smooth transitions at intersections, etc.

Red lights mean stop. A right turn is permitted after a full stop unless otherwise posted. A left turn onto a one way street is permitted from a one-way street after coming to a complete stop unless otherwise posted.

Yellow signals that it is time to slow down and stop. A yellow light is a means of safely clearing an intersection.

Green means go when it is safe to do so. Remember, pedestrians crossing on the green have the right-of-way.

When approaching an intersection with a green arrow and a red light, you may turn only in the direction of the green arrow without stopping. Yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians and vehicles in the intersection.

Flashing Lights

Flashing Red - Stop. Proceed only when it is safe to do so.
Flashing Yellow - Slow down. Proceed with caution.
When flashing yellow lights are used together with a sign which indicates a pedestrian hazard, such as a school or playground area or pedestrian crosswalks, reduce your speed to 30 km/h. Be prepared to stop and yield right-of way to any pedestrians on the roadway. Keep your speed reduced until you are clear of the area.
Flashing Green - You may proceed. Opposing traffic is facing a red signal.
Flashing Arrow - traffic moving in the direction of the arrow may proceed if the way is clear.

Traffic Control Signal Advance Warning

This sign is erected in advance of some signalized intersections. When the lights on the sign are flashing, drivers approaching the intersection should be prepared to stop as the traffic control light is red or about to turn red.

Speed Limits

Speed limits do not indicate the speed you should travel. Speed limits are the maximum speeds permitted if conditions are favourable. Any speed which is unsafe under the prevailing conditions is illegal.
Speed limits are posted in kilometres per hour.

Traffic Signs

Traffic signs tell you what to expect ahead. Examples include:

• Sharp Right Turn Ahead
• Divided Highway Ends
• Underpass Clearance
• Merge Ahead

Information and Guide signs

These signs provide a driver with information about routes, points or interest and roadside services. Examples include:

• Primary Highway markers
• Secondary Highway markers
• Hospital
• Airport
• Distance to Next City

Off Road Facilities

If you are looking for that "nice clean restroom" look for these distinctive brown signs. These signs indicate services and facilities such as:

• Picnic Tables
• Lodging
• Gas
• Golfing

Pedestrian-School

This sign warns that you are approaching a school zone. Slow down, drive with extra caution and watch for children. This sign may also have a "Maximum Speed" or "km/h During School Days" tab underneath.

Slow Moving Vehicle

Placed on the rear of slow moving vehicles such as farm tractors, machinery or construction equipment, these signs warn you to reduce speed and be cautious.

Road Construction Signs

These orange diamond shaped signs warn you of persons and equipment on the road. Slow down for your protection and theirs, and always obey the flag person's signal.

You should expect delays around construction areas. Posted construction zone speed limits must be obeyed at all times even when people and equipment are not working.

Construction hazards such as bumps, fresh oil and loose gravel may be present.

Overdimensional Load Signs

These signs indicate a wide load is being transported. Use caution when passing vehicles displaying these signs.