Why traffic signs are important
As an experienced CDL Third Party Examiner, it has become apparent that some folks on the nation’s highways, have no idea what some of our traffic signs mean.
Or they do not bother to read them
With over four million miles of public roads in the United States, signs serve to focus attention to detours, bridge heights, or updated construction work.
They are an integral part of the roadways and play an important role in road safety. They are an indication that something important is going to happen in near travels by communicating important information about parking restrictions, one-way streets, detours, and other relevant details that help drivers make informed decisions. Signs provide warnings of upcoming construction and traffic congestion and are important for maintaining safe speeds.
Ancient Rome: The Birth of Street Signs
The history of traffic signs dates back hundreds of years.
From the ancient roads of Rome to the sophisticated street signs of today, the history of street signs reflects our need for efficient communication and road safety. Romans are credited with inventing some of the earliest signs with a need for controlling the movement of people and animals. They built the first roads for efficient transportation of soldiers and supplies. These early roads required markers to indicate direction and distance. Mile markers were installed at regular intervals to guide travelers and measure the distance to Rome.
In the early 1900s, roadways in America were primarily rural and poorly maintained. Road signage was left to local automobile clubs, resulting in a lack of uniformity and confusion for drivers. The situation began to change in the 1920s when state governments started taking initiatives to standardize street signs.
The first modern traffic signs were introduced in the late 19th century. The first official traffic sign, known as the “stop sign,” was implemented in Detroit, Michigan, United States, in 1915.
In 1927, the Manual and Specifications for the Manufacture, Display, and Erection of U.S. Standard Road Markers and Signs was published. This marked the beginning of street sign standardization in the United States. Today, all states must adhere to signage standards set by the U.S. Department of Transportation .
Traffic signs follow standardized designs and symbols that are universally recognized. This consistency ensures that drivers, regardless of their location or language, can understand and respond to the signs appropriately.
When operating a CDL vehicle, there could be a serious complication and safety concern for others, if a driver does not realize the circumstances in which they may soon be involved. It is a valuable piece of information to know if vehicle will fit under a bridge that will be soon be encountered.
I have witnessed countless drivers navigating the challenging task of obtaining their commercial driver’s license. Each day brings new surprises, but one incident in particular still lingers.
CDL test was for a driver with a previous failure at another test site. As we completed the paperwork I questioned what happened on previous failure.
“The Examiner didn’t like me. Failed me because I missed a sign”
Took comment with a grain of salt and suggested test getting ready to start contains many of the same challenges.
During a CDL road test, an Examiner will ask questions about signs, markings, or weight limits along the route. A simple measure of how aware a CDL driver is when encountering different scenarios.
A CDL driver must be aware of current surroundings while operating the vehicle. It is important to understand driver reaction to an emergency situation. Being a conscientious driver is often the difference between a safe journey and a potential disaster. CDL drivers must prioritize safety above all else.
The Test:
During first part of our test the driver performed various procedures well. Impressive score results with handling vehicle during both urban and rural driving challenges.
Expectations were a passing score were only minutes away after a short highway trip and return to our yard without a major traffic violation.
Talk about being wrong…
We continue road to highway approach and two posted signs are obviously ignored as speedometer climbs to upper limits of speed at several locations. Driver maneuvers vehicle into proper lane for highway entrance but enters a clearly marked 20 MPH approach at over 40 MPH. There is no indication of reducing speed and total disregard of safe limit.
My heart races as I jot down observations. Drivers sometimes underestimate the hidden risks of speeding while operating a CDL vehicle. The potential outcomes when a large vehicle enters or exits a highway at excessive speed cannot be overlooked.
Speeding not only endangers the driver but also poses a significant threat to others on the road because it reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic, and leads to a greater likelihood of collisions.
Outcome:
Without introducing liquids and tankers which are only an endorsement away, a loaded box truck cannot navigate excessive speed on turns. A shift in weight can happen with a sharp brake or turn and result with a vehicle overturn. Size and weight of commercial vehicles make them less maneuverable, putting them at a higher risk of accidents.
After a previous sign failure, and a suggestion of expectations, there was no choice except another traffic sign failure. My only advice was to remind importance of adhering to traffic laws and the potential consequences of his actions. A reminder that every decision on the road carries weight, and the consequences can be devastating.
