Saskatchewan Driver Education GDL Class 7 Learner Practice Test

What is the purpose of traffic signs?

1. To provide direction only

2. To ensure safety and regulate traffic

3. To keep drivers alert

4. To provide detailed maps

The correct answer is: To ensure safety and regulate traffic

Traffic signs are essential components of the roadway system, serving multiple important functions that significantly enhance road safety and traffic regulation. The primary purpose of traffic signs is to ensure safety and regulate traffic flow, as they communicate critical information to drivers and pedestrians. These signs inform users about speed limits, warn of potential hazards, indicate the right of way, and provide instructions for safe navigation. By clearly conveying rules and guiding behavior, traffic signs help prevent accidents and create a structured environment for all road users. For example, stop signs and yield signs regulate the flow of vehicles at intersections, while warning signs alert drivers to upcoming conditions, such as sharp turns or pedestrian crossings. In contrast, options like providing direction only or serving as detailed maps do not encompass the full range of functions that traffic signs serve, and while keeping drivers alert is somewhat related, it does not capture the broader regulatory and safety-focused roles of traffic signs themselves.