Traffic Intersection Accident Lawyers

Types of Signs and Signals in Ontario

Regulatory Signs

Regulatory signs give directions that are mandatory to follow. Typically rectangular and painted in black and white with a single bright color to denote its meaning, signs with red mean a driver should avoid the activity on the sign, and those with green mean that activity is allowed.

Ex: Sections of street where cars may or may not be parked; Do Not Enter signs; speed limit changes.

Temporary Conditions

Any condition that is impermanent but that needs to be marked for driver awareness will be signified with a temporary conditions sign. They are usually diamond shaped painted black and orange for easy visibility.

Ex: Construction zones; detour ahead; road work ahead.

Information and Direction Signs

These signs provide information regarding the roads and routes of the area. Usually green and large, these signs help drivers navigate Ontarios roadways.

Ex: Freeway interchanges or exits; routes to airport and train stations; distance in kilometres to towns.

Warning Signs

Dangerous or unusual conditions are marked by warning signs which are typically bright yellow with black lettering and diamond shaped. Warning signs are critical to safe driving on roads or freeways with curving or dipping terrain, or any other conditions that the driver should beware of.

Ex: Narrow bridge is ahead; hidden curve; pavement narrows; sharp bend or curve in the road.

Traffic Signals

Drivers and pedestrians are guided at intersections and along roads with the use of traffic lights. Green light means the driver can proceed; a yellow or amber light means the driver should yield if it is too late to proceed through the light, while a red light means the driver must stop.

Drivers must be able to differentiate between these signs and signals in order to safely traverse our roads and freeways. If they do not know the signs meanings or choose to ignore them they are risking their own life and the lives of those around them.

The victims of drivers who carelessly ignore traffic lights and signs are unfairly made to endure pain and suffering that could have easily been avoided with the proper behavior behind the wheel. If you or someone you know if suffering, contact a solicitor with knowledge of auto accident litigation to file a personal injury claim.