Traffic Signs & Road Safety Rules in India

How Road Safety Signs & Traffic Signals Help Drivers:

In India, any person applying for a driving license is required to be familiar with road safety signs and traffic signals. They need to go through a written/oral test in order to obtain the driving license. Here are some of the ways in which traffic signs act as a traffic management tool:

Traffic Management Tool for Drivers:

1. Road signs inform drivers the correct lanes to take so that they can avoid blockages caused due to abrupt turns.
2. Provide significant information about sensitive junctions and curves, speed limit, and presence of hospitals or schools nearby so that drivers can adjust their pace accordingly.
3. Inform vehicle owners about available/restricted parking areas, entry and exit points, and more.
4. Guide heavy, medium, and light vehicles with proper division of lanes.
5. Ensure discipline on the roads by the implementation of lane discipline and overtaking rules.
6. Inform motorists about directions to take, potential dangers ahead, and rules to follow on highways.

In recent years, the law enforcement and government authorities have emphasised bringing stricter rules when it comes to granting of driving licenses and imposing penalties on traffic violations.

Cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, New Delhi, and others have serious problems with respect to the implementation of traffic regulations and it is important for people to make the right use of road signs to navigate through roads with ease. There are primarily three types of traffic signs that everyone should be aware of. The same are as follows:

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Mandatory Traffic Signs:

Mandatory traffic signs ensure free movement of traffic on the roads and make motorists and pedestrians mindful of rules, regulations, and prohibitions while using the roads. Violation of mandatory traffic rules is an offence under the law. Traffic signs like 'One Way', 'No Entry', and 'Overtaking Prohibited' are some of the examples of mandatory traffic rules.

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Cautionary Traffic Signs:

The cautionary traffic signs warn road users in advance about potential hazards and dangers on the roads. It helps drivers to be mentally prepared for any difficulties and bottlenecks while moving forward. 'Steep Ascent', 'School Ahead', 'Narrow Road', and 'Dangerous Dip' are some of the examples of cautionary traffic signs.

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Informatory Signs:

Informatory traffic signs help road users with information about the directions, distance, destinations, alternative routes, and important locations such as schools, hospitals, public toilets, and more. Some of the examples are 'Right Hand Curve', 'Pedestrian Crossing', 'Cattle', and more.

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Importance of Traffic Signs & Road Rules:

The alarming rate of road accidents is one of the biggest causes of worry in India. In the past decade, there have been many regulations and rules introduced to promote road safety in the country. However, many of these regulations have not seen much success at the grass root level. This is why it is important to educate people from their early age so that they grow up to be responsible citizens.

1. Road safety rules are not only limited to be used by motorists and drivers but also by pedestrians, cyclists, and others.  
2. While on the road, one must carefully observe traffic sign boards and follow the same with patience and consideration. This will not only ensure smooth flow of traffic by bringing down congestion but also help people avoid potential mishaps while on the roads. 

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FAQs on Traffic Signs & Road Safety Rules in India

• Is it necessary to have a driving license while driving?

  Yes, it is mandatory to carry your driving license while you are driving. If you are found guilty of not having your driving license while you are driving, you will be penalized with a fine or imprisonment. 

• Is it necessary to wear seat belts while driving?

  Yes, according to the traffic rules, the driver as well as the person who is sitting in the front seat of the vehicle should wear seat belts while the vehicle is moving. 

• What are traffic signal rules?

  The traffic signal rules are basically important to follow in order to keep a smooth as well as consistent flow of traffic. A red light at the traffic stop means you have to bring your vehicle to a halt. On the other hand, a yellow light in a traffic signal means you need to slow down your vehicle. The green traffic light in a traffic signal means you can continue driving. 

• What are the documents required to be carried by a driver while driving?

  The documents which are needed to be carried by a driver while driving are driving license, taxation certificate, registration certificate, as well as emission test certificate. 

• What does the white diamond in a traffic sign signify?

  White road signs are for non primary roads which are used in conjunction with regulatory road signs and warning road signs. 

• How do informatory traffic signs help road users?

  Informatory traffic signs help the road users with details about the distance, directions, alternative routes, destinations, and important areas such as hospitals, schools, public toilets, and offices. Some of its examples are 'Cattle', 'Pedestrian Crossing', 'Right Hand Curve', and more. 

• How many types of road safety signs are there?

  Traffic signs in India are categorized into three categories namely cautionary signs, mandatory signs, as well as informatory signs. 

• What is ‘No Entry’ zone?

  The traffic safety rules for 'No Entry' zones are critical for various reasons. Firstly, these zones are created for continuing the safe movement of traffic. Apart from this, if you enter a 'No Entry' zone, there is a risk of accidents because the vehicles which are coming from other directions do not expect you to be there. The rules of road safety include huge fines for committing this offence. The amount of fine may vary based upon the city or state where you are riding or driving. 

• What is the most important rule of driving in India?

  One of the most important driving rules in India is that you should drive your vehicle on the left side of the road in order to avoid collision with the vehicles that are coming from the right side. Other than this, you should also have all the legal documents which need to be carried while driving on the roads. These documents are registration certificate of the vehicle, driving license, Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, and motor vehicle insurance. 

• What happens if I break the traffic signal?

  Breaking a traffic signal will cause accidents on the road, and you will be penalized for this crime. 

About the Author

Annie Jangam

Annie Jangam is a financial writer with a unique background in biotechnology and eight years of genomics research experience, culminating in 6 international publications. She combines her analytical and communication skills to simplify complex financial concepts, delivering precise and creatively engaging content in the fintech industry. She covers various financial products such as banking, insurance, credit cards, tax, commodities, and more. Outside of the financial realm, she dabbles in poetry. Her extracurricular passions include organizing events like One Billion Rising and Human Rights Day. She is committed to the equality of all people, a principle rooted in her Christian faith. Annie strives to embody the values of faith, hope, and love in both her work and her life.