Mandatory signage refers to signs that are obligatory on the traffic which uses a specific area of road. Unlike prohibitive signs, these signs indicate what one must do, rather than must not do.
These signs play a crucial role in traffic management, ensuring specific actions are taken by drivers to maintain safety and order on the road. They leave no room for discretion; compliance is required.
Characteristics of Mandatory Signs
Understanding the visual cues of mandatory signs helps in quick identification and compliance.
- Purpose: To compel specific actions from road users.
- Obligation: They impose duties or requirements.
- Action-Oriented: They tell you what to do.
Typical Shape and Color
According to standard conventions:
- Mandatory Road signs are generally round in shape.
- They often feature a red border.
- Some of them are blue in colour.
However, there are notable exceptions that are widely recognized mandatory instructions:
| Sign Type | Shape | Typical Color(s) | Obligation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mandatory | Round | Blue or Red/White | Must follow a specific direction/action |
| Exceptions | |||
| Stop | Octagon | Red/White | Must come to a complete stop |
| Give Way | Triangular | Red/White | Must yield to traffic |
As mentioned in the reference, 'Stop' and 'Give Way', while differing from the typical round shape (octagon and triangular, respectively), are fundamental mandatory instructions on the road.
Examples of Mandatory Signs (Beyond Exceptions)
While the reference specifically mentions 'Stop' and 'Give Way' as mandatory signs with exceptional shapes, typical round mandatory signs instruct actions like:
- Turn Left Ahead
- Turn Right Ahead
- Proceed Straight Only
- Mini-Roundabout (indicating mandatory direction)
- Vehicles Exceeding Weight Limit Prohibited (often round, indicating a mandatory restriction)
These signs enforce a specific flow of traffic or require adherence to certain conditions for using the road section they govern. Their purpose is always to ensure compliance with a necessary rule for that specific location.
In summary, mandatory signage dictates required actions for traffic in designated areas, serving as clear instructions on what road users must do.
