TRAFFIC SIGNS

RAY DOMINICK T. CLAROS

 Traffic signs, like traffic signals lights and road markings are
used to convey quickly and accurately the wide range of
information needed by road users, particularly vehicle drivers,
and to promote a safe and efficient use of the road system.
Traffic Signs – refer to any device mounted on portable
support whereby a message is conveyed by means of words or
symbols officially installed for the purpose of regulating, warning
or guiding traffic.
Traffic signs are installed to serve the following functions.
1. To control traffic
2. To safeguard the flow of traffic
3. To expedite traffic
4. To guide traffic and motorists
• Standardization of traffic signs shall conform to the standards
set forth in the erection and display of standard road signs and
markers as prescribed by the DPWH as to shape, color,
dimension , shape, size, height, lettering or symbols.
• Traffic signs shall be installed only under public authority or by
official having jurisdiction for that purpose, and it shall not
bear any commercial advertisement.
• A thorough knowledge of traffic signs, signals and roads and
pavement markings is necessary to all drivers. Every motorist
must be able to recognize and obey them without hesitation
even with the absence of traffic police officer.
A. HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
• In Britain, early signposts were erected by private individuals
at their own expense.
• In 1648 – parishes were required by law to place guideposts at
crossroads.
• In 1773, these and mileposts were required to be erected and
maintained by Turnpike Trusts.
• The Motor Car Act of 1903 made local authorities responsible
for placing certain warning and prohibitory signs
A. HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
• With increased international travel after World War II,
discussion took place in the United Nation (UN) on the
introduction of international traffic signs. However, it was not
until 1965 that United Kingdom (UK) signs were changed to
conform to the European System.
• In 1995, it was estimated that there were 2,500,000 signs and
signals, 850,000 road markings, and 7,000,000 road studs on
the roads in England alone.
• On the other hand, the United States (US) adopted the signs in
the 1970s and developed a set of national standards for signs,
color, shape, and usage.
A. HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
• On June 6, 1973, the Philippines through P.D 207 declared as
part of the laws of the Philippines the UN Vienna Convention
on road traffic, signs, markings, and signals.
B. International Traffic Signs
As explained in the Vienna convention, the system of signs and
signals which it has prescribed is based on the use of shapes and
colors, characteristics of each class sign, and whenever possible
on the use of graphic symbols rather than inscriptions with few
exceptions one of which is the STOP sign of the United States. It
has been adopted very likely because it is understood practically
by every motorist regardless of nationalists.
B. International Traffic Signs
1. Round and red sign: regulates the movement of turning and
passing traffic regulations;
2. Round black yellow signs: a warning that you are
approaching a railroad crossing;
3. Equilateral triangle red signs: a sign at the intersection
directing drivers to yield the right-of-way to vehicle in the
road being crossed;
4. Eight- sided (octagonal) red and white stop sign: the most
popular and understood sign by all tongues and colors; and
5. Triangle red and black sign: approaching a danger zone, hill,
slope, winding road, and others.
C. Classification of
International Traffic Signs.
1. Danger Warning Signs
2. Regulatory Signs
3. Informative Signs
D. Legend to International
Traffic Signs.