At a young age we learn our colors. Did you know that traffic signs colors are very specific? These colors, and what they represent on the road, have been embedded into our daily routines since infancy. The color of roadway signs is an important indicator of the information they contain.
Traffic signs communicate to the driver what to expect on the road ahead and the color of the sign sends a message to the driver. Each color signifies a different action or reference, but each one is important in its own right.
Here are some common traffic sign colors and their meanings:
- Red: Red means STOP! A red traffic sign tells the driver to stop. This limits the driver from going further.
- Green: Green means go. A green traffic sign tells the driver they can proceed.
- Yellow: A yellow traffic sign stands for caution and serves as a general warning.
- Black and White: A black and white traffic sign posts regulations such as speed.
- Orange: An orange traffic sign signals construction or road maintenance. Be prepared to slow down!
- Brown: A brown traffic sign indicates local recreation areas or points of interest.
- Blue: A blue traffic sign offers information to assist the driver.
Now if only there was a pink traffic sign, my favorite color!
— Lisa Robinson is a senior program manager at the National Safety Council