what is traffic sign

A traffic sign, also known as a road sign, is a sign erected at the side of or above roads to give instructions or provide information to road users. These signs can convey a variety of messages, including regulatory information, warnings, directions, and information about road services and facilities. They are essential for maintaining the safety and efficiency of transportation facilities. Traffic signs can be categorized into various types, such as informational signs, regulatory signs, warning signs, and guidance signs. They use a combination of colors, shapes, symbols, and words to communicate with road users. For example, red signs are used for stop, yield, and prohibition, while yellow signs convey general warnings, and green signs show permitted traffic movements or directional guidance. The shape of the sign can also indicate the type of information it contains, such as rectangular signs for regulatory information, diamond-shaped signs for warnings, and circular signs for railroad crossings. In addition, traffic signs increasingly use symbols rather than words to convey their message, which helps overcome language barriers and provides instant communication with roadway users. The use of electronic displays and automatic traffic sign recognition in vehicles is also becoming more prevalent, allowing for "intelligent control" linked to automated traffic sensors or remote manual input.