11 Road Signs And What They Mean

Let’s take a look at some road signs on our streets and what they actually mean. All drivers are to take notice of these road signs and know what to do when they see one.

1. MEN AT WORK

This is a temporary warning sign used to alert drivers of upcoming road work. Orange is used on this sign because it is one of the most visible colors to the human eye, and can be noticed above other traffic signs on the road.

When driving through work zones, safe driving is at its highest premium. Men at work signs are generally accompanied by other temporary warning signs, such as “Road Work Ahead” and “Men at Work” signs.

2. NO U-TURN SIGN

There are a few variations of a no U-turn sign. With the curved arrow showing a U-turn and bold prohibition symbol over it, this standard design is understood to express areas where drivers cannot change the direction of their vehicle into the opposite direction

3. PEDESTRIAN CROSSING

With the curved arrow showing a U-turn and bold prohibition symbol over it, this standard design is understood to express areas where drivers cannot change the direction of their vehicle into the opposite direction

4. Green Road Sign

Green road signs are direction signs. This color is used for things like street signs (the names of streets), exit signs, mile markers, and signs showing you directions to a certain city or the distance to a specific place

5. STOP SIGN

Stop signs are likely the most iconic of all traffic signs. Both the shape and color are important to how a stop sign is recognized and understood.
No other sign is of an octagon shape, and no other sign is red in color. This is done because of the importance a stop sign has on traffic safety. Stop signs alert drivers to intersections and other areas where traffic may be traveling in opposite or crossing directions. For more information specifically about stop signs, visit our stop signs buyer’s guide.

6. Fluorescent Yellow/Green

 This color is relatively new on our roadways, but it is used for signs relating to pedestrians, bicycles, and school warning signs. They are increasingly being used for some constructions signs as well. This color is used because it is easier to see during foggy or rainy weather

7. Octagon

A road sign in the shape of an octagon will always be a stop sign. Come to a full stop at an intersection controlled by this sign. Stop at the marked stop line or before entering the crosswalk or before your vehicle enters the intersection. Let other vehicles or pedestrians pass if they are in your path

8. Orange Road Signs

Orange road signs are usually temporary signs relating to road work, temporary traffic control, and maintenance warnings. When you see orange road signs, be sure to watch for workers on or near the roadway

9. No Right Turn

This sign is used to indicate a street that you can not turn right onto. Most often, you will see these in downtown areas. The Opposite is No Left Turn

10. No Parking

This one means you can’t park wherever it is. Some no parking signs can be a bit confusing with different days and times shown. Be sure to read them carefully.

11. Pentagon Road Sign

A road sign in the shape of a pentagon will refer to a school crossing or school zone. The color of the sign may be yellow or florescent yellow/green.