What is the main purpose of traffic signs?

The primary purpose of traffic signs is to convey essential safety information and traffic rules. These signs play a crucial role in maintaining safety on the road by informing drivers about rules they need to follow, such as speed limits, yield signs, or warnings about hazards ahead. They help regulate traffic flow, ensure safe driving behavior, and alert drivers to their surroundings and any potential dangers. This communication is vital for preventing accidents and promoting efficient traffic management, making it important for all motorists to understand and comply with the information these signs provide.

While providing directions is one aspect of some signs, it is not their main purpose. Advertising local businesses, on the other hand, does not fit the function of regulatory and safety signage. Similarly, decorating the roadway is not a legitimate reason for the presence of traffic signs, as their primary role is for informational and safety purposes rather than aesthetic ones.