Traffic signs

Traffic signs are divided into a few categories. By the shape and colour of the sign, you can often deduce whether you are dealing with an obligatory sign (directives that must be followed), a prohibition sign (signs that indicate restrictions), a cautionary sign (warning signs) or an informative sign.

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

This sign indicates a prohibition. They are found in category A (speed limits), category C (declaration of closures) and category F (miscellaneous signs).

Round blue signs (‘… is mandatory here.’)

These signs communicate directives. They are found in category D (mandatory directions of travel), category F (miscellaneous signs) and category G (mandatory lanes and pathways).

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

These white signs have a red border and a symbol. They are warning signs and are found in category B (priority signs) and category J (warning signs). The sign indicates what you are being warned about.

Square or rectangular blue signs

Most of these signs are informational. You can find these signs in many categories and can be used for a variety of purposes.

Unique signs

In addition to all these categories, a few signs have their own unique shape. These signs all have to do with priority and giving way. Even if the signs are snowed over, two of the signs can still be recognised by their shape:

• Sign B-6
  This is the only triangular sign with the point facing down. If you see this sign, then you will know that you must give way to drivers on the intersecting road.

• Sign B-7
  This is the only octagonal sign. If you see this sign, you will know that you must always stop and give way to drivers on the intersecting road.

All of this is a little more difficult with signs B-1 and B-2. These signs are the only two diamond-shaped signs, but they have opposite meanings. The B-1 sign indicates that you are riding on a priority road, while B-2 indicates that you are no longer riding on a priority road. With these signs, it is important that you can see whether the diagonal black stripes are present.

Zone signs

Signs can also be designed as zone signs. In this case, the normal sign is placed on a rectangular white background with the word ‘zone’ in black at the top. Signs indicating the end of the zone are designed in the same way, but in shades of grey with three black stripes diagonally across the sign.