Chapter 2 : Signs, Signals, and Roadway Markings

The purposes of traffic signs are

• to stop, to warn, to decide.

• to regulate, to warn, to guide.

• to observe, to direct, to guide.

Answer explanation

Traffic signs serve three main purposes: to regulate traffic flow, to warn drivers of potential hazards, and to guide them to their destinations. The correct choice, 'to regulate, to warn, to guide,' accurately reflects these functions.

You are approaching an intersection. You intend to make a left turn after stopping for a STOP sign. Bushes block your view to the right. You should

• stop evenly with the STOP sign, creep forward, and stop again if necessary.

• reduce speed early, stop where you can see best, and continue when the way is clear.

• accelerate after stopping since you have the right of way.

Answer explanation

Stopping evenly with the STOP sign allows you to assess traffic safely. Creep forward to improve visibility, ensuring the way is clear before turning left, especially since bushes block your view.

Yielding in traffic means

• allowing others to go before you.

• coming to a complete stop every time.

• expecting others to stop for you.

Answer explanation

Yielding in traffic means allowing others to go before you, which is essential for safe driving and maintaining order on the road. The other options do not accurately describe the concept of yielding.

The basic speed law requires you to drive

• no faster than is safe for existing conditions.

• at the maximum posted speed limit.

• within 5 mph of the 55 mph speed limit.

Answer explanation

The basic speed law emphasizes driving no faster than is safe for existing conditions, prioritizing safety over merely adhering to posted speed limits.

A red circle and diagonal slash on a sign means that

• the action is not allowed.

• a hazard is ahead.

• two roads intersect ahead.

Answer explanation

A red circle with a diagonal slash indicates that the action is prohibited. This is a common symbol used in signs to convey that certain behaviors or actions are not allowed.

Most warning signs are

• diamond-shaped.

• square-shaped.

• round-shaped.

Answer explanation

Most warning signs are diamond-shaped to easily distinguish them from other types of signs. This shape is universally recognized for indicating caution or alertness on the road.

The message on a diamond-shaped sign might be

• Curve, Hill, or Winding Road.

• No Turn, Speed Zone Ahead, or Left Lane Must Turn Left.

• One Way, Wrong Way, or No Trucks.

Answer explanation

The diamond-shaped sign typically indicates warnings about road conditions. Therefore, 'Curve', 'Hill', or 'Winding Road' are appropriate messages, as they alert drivers to potential hazards ahead.

This yellow warning sign means

• a left curve ahead.

• the roadway narrows.

• a winding road ahead.

Answer explanation

This yellow warning sign indicates that the roadway narrows ahead, alerting drivers to reduce speed and be cautious. It is important to recognize this sign to ensure safety while driving.

You pass a school zone sign. You should

• know you are within one block of a school.

• stop immediately.

• go 30 mph.

Answer explanation

The school zone sign indicates you are near a school, typically within one block. It serves as a warning to be cautious, especially regarding speed and pedestrian safety, rather than requiring an immediate stop.

What does this sign mean?

• yield the right of way

• no passing

• railroad crossing

Answer explanation

The sign indicates a railroad crossing, alerting drivers to slow down and prepare to stop for trains. This is crucial for safety, as trains can approach quickly and are often not visible until they are very close.