Local administrators use mandatory signs in several cases to ensure public safety. They can be used in commercial and private premises for different purposes. For example, fire safety signs are used to show the public where to run in an emergency. Similarly, traffic signs are used for a variety of purposes, some to ensure that drivers abide by the speed limit, and others to ensure that drivers are warned about sharp curves, upcoming speed brakes, etc. In some cases, these signs can also be used to inform people of variable limits. For example,
Mandatory road signs
Some highways may have different limits depending on their length, location, and state of construction. Highways that cross long stretches of land may have static speeds.
These will usually be stop signs and other mandatory ones to warn drivers of sudden grades or curves, perhaps even speed switches. Signs pointing to the nearest restrooms, gas pumps, and restaurants will also be posted in abundance for long-distance travelers to take advantage of.
Also, there may be some variations in speed, for example, a lower limit near restaurants or gas pumps and a higher limit in open areas. Signage indicating the change will be posted so drivers can drive within the assigned speed accordingly.
Signs on the streets of the city
You will also find variations in speed within the city limits. Busy city streets, those near schools, markets, or business premises will generally be lowered to ensure the safety of both the car driver and passers-by.
Open city roads, those through the desert, or other open areas will generally have higher limits. Along these roads, different signs indicating the changes will be placed at regular intervals.
You’ll find these signs near curbs, intersections, and even along the sides of major roads. It is important to observe these signs and drive accordingly. Following the higher speed of another stretch of road in a place where you should be driving slower could lead to fines and traffic violations.
How do they help?
By posting mandatory highway signs specifying variable limits, local administrators help ensure the safety of drivers and passers-by. It is not possible to remember where 50 kmph ended and where 30 kmph began. That is why signs are placed, to indicate the place where one limit ends and the other begins.
Over bridges, highways, open roads usually have higher limits, but as the road gets closer to crowded areas, the speed changes depending on the environment. These signs help new out-of-town drivers understand what speed limit to follow. In addition, they help prevent unnecessary incidents on the road.
Therefore, when you learn to drive, a good instructor will always teach you to read various types of road signs, for your safety.
