Traffic signs

Traffic signs are divided into several categories. It is often easy to determine from its colour and shape whether a sign is regulatory (directives that must be followed), cautionary (warning signs), or informational.

Different signs

Round white signs with a red border (‘… is prohibited here’)

These signs are used to indicate restrictions and fall into categories A (speed limits), C (closures), and F (miscellaneous restrictions).

Round blue signs (‘… is mandatory here’)

These signs communicate directives and occur in categories D (compulsory driving directions), F (miscellaneous restrictions), and G (mandatory lanes or pathways).

Triangular signs with the point up (‘Be aware of…’)

These white signs, which feature a red border and a pictogram, are cautionary signs that fall into categories B (priority signs) and J (warning signs). The sign indicates what the warning is regarding.

Rectangular and square blue signs

Most of these signs are informational. They fall into many categories and are used for a variety of purposes.

Unique signs

A number of signs have unique shapes – all of them priority signs governing right of way. Due to their shape, two of these signs remain recognisable during snowy weather:

• B-6 Sign
  This is the only triangular sign with the point facing down. Drivers who encounter this sign must give right of way to drivers on the intersecting road.

• B-7 Sign
  This is the only octagonal sign. Drivers who encounter this sign must stop and give right of way to drivers on the intersecting road.

It is all a little trickier with signs B-1 and B-2. While these are the only two diamond-shaped road signs, they have opposite meanings. Sign B-1 indicates you are driving on a priority road, while sign B-2 indicates you are not. Upon encountering this sign, it is important to note whether or not the oblique black lines are present.

Zone signs

Road signs can also function as zone signs, whereby the standard sign is placed on a rectangular white surface with the word ‘zone’ in black at the top. Signs indicating the end of a zone are designed in the same way, but in shades of grey with three black diagonal lines across the sign.