Traffic Signals and Road Signs in India: An Overview

India tops the list of the highest road accident deaths across the world. So it becomes crucial to have knowledge of traffic signals and road signs in India for the people driving the vehicle. The traffic signals and signs give the warning about the road ahead and if any special measures to take into account.

Every individual needs to understand the meaning of traffic signals and road signs. Traffic signs in India are like a guide on the road; thus, knowing about them is necessary for everyone, especially the person driving the vehicle.

What are Traffic Signals and Road Signs?

Traffic signs in India exist to provide the necessary information to the driver that there is no unnecessary disruption in traffic. All major junctions and roads need instructions, and information is needed about the road conditions, thus making the traffic signals and signs in India very important.

Traffic signals and signs of road safety in India are a must-know for everyone to ensure they are safe on roads, and so are the people around them. Adequate knowledge and understanding of the road signs in India help reduce the number of accidents that happen on the road. Those not fluent in English can see the traffic signals and signs in Hindi and understand their safety. It is essential to know the sign as it can be noticed while driving.

Requirement to Know Traffic Signs in India

Driving without a valid license on Indian roads is a criminal offence. It is required to know the traffic signals and road signs in India when applying for a driving license. An oral or written test must be given to get a license to drive in India; thus, knowing the traffic rules and signs in India with their meanings is an important element. Traffic signals and signs knowledge is a must because of the following reasons:

Provide instructions and information on the road conditions ahead.
Knowing traffic signals and signs in India helps reduce the number of accidents by ensuring discipline on the roads.
It informs the driver about the correct lanes and hence ensures smooth traffic.
Traffic signals and signs provide all information about important curves and junctions and the presence of schools, hospitals and speed limits.
The traffic signs and symbols inform the driver about entry and exit points and parking areas.
All traffic signs allow drivers to follow the traffic rules and road safety signs in India and about potential dangers on the road.

Road Traffic Signs

Traffic is a problem in our country, and one of the main reasons is the need for more implementation of rules and enforcement and less knowledge about traffic signals and road signs in India. These days, the Indian authorities have become strict in issuing licenses and has introduced exams and tests to ensure that the driver has complete knowledge of traffic signals and road sign rules in India.

Traffic signs and road safety in India are being taken very seriously by the authorities, who are taking many steps to improve the present situation. Some of the road safety signs and symbols that every driver on the road should be aware of are:

Mandatory Traffic Signals and Signs

Mandatory traffic signs in India are made to ensure that traffic moves freely. With the knowledge of the road safety signs, drivers learn about the prohibitions, rules, and regulations they must keep in mind while driving. It is considered an offence if any of the traffic signals and road signs are violated. Some of the mandatory traffic safety signs are “Stop”, “One Way”, “No Entry”, “Speed Limit”, “Right Turn Prohibited”, etc. These traffic signs in India should be known to anyone, as a violation can land one in trouble with the police.

Cautionary Traffic Signals and Signs

These are the road signs in India that inform the driver about the potential dangers ahead and possible hazards on the road. These cautionary traffic signals and road signs ensure the driver is more careful and mentally prepared for any problems he may face. Some examples of these types of traffic signs are “Narrow Road Ahead”, “Round About”, “Pedestrian Crossing”, “Hair Pin Bend”, etc. Traffic signals and road safety signs are also available in Hindi for people to understand the rules.

Informatory Traffic Signals and Signs

These are the Indian traffic signals and signs with meanings that aware the driver about the distance to the destination, alternative routes, directions, destinations and important places like hospitals, schools, etc.

Final Words

The rising number of road accidents is one of the biggest concerns for the authorities in the country. Due to this reason, many traffic signs, symbols and rules are being made and updated regularly to ensure better safety. Education and implementation of rules are a concern, and thus, it is required that these are taught early on to the population. Anyone on the road should know about traffic signals and signs in India, along with their meanings, so they can be safe and ensure others are safe, too. Anyone on the road must be patient and pay attention to the traffic signs in India. Doing so will avoid traffic jams and reduce the number of accidents.

FAQs

1. What are the three types of traffic signals in India?

Ans. The types of traffic signals in India are broadly categorised into three terms mentioned as mandatory, cautionary, and informatory.

2. What happens if you drive even when the light turns yellow and then red?

Ans. If the driver ignores the yellow light and continues to drive the vehicle, it is considered that they have violated the traffic signals and signs. In such conditions, the driver is liable to pay a fine the same as they must for crossing a red light.

3. What is a warning traffic sign?

Ans. The warning traffic sign on the road is diamond-shaped.

4. What do the black and yellow traffic signals and signs mean?

Ans. The black and yellow traffic signals and signs signify the warning signs that the important to consider for a safe drive.

5. What are the documents to carry while driving on Indian roads?

Ans. Besides following the traffic signals and signs, carrying valid and updated documents is also important while driving on Indian roads. Not doing so may lead you to pay heavy fines. The following documents are required to carry