Traffic Signs and Road Markings
Reading signs by shape and colour
Regulatory signs are generally circular and tell you what you must or must not do: speed limits, stop and give way, no entry, no U-turn, keep left. Warning signs are usually diamond-shaped and alert you to hazards ahead such as curves, crests, wildlife, or school zones. Guide and information signs are rectangular and give directions, distances, or facility information. Temporary signs for roadworks use similar shapes with distinctive colouring.
Lines and markings that decide questions
A solid centre line means do not cross; a broken line may be crossed when safe. Double lines: a broken line on your side permits crossing to overtake or turn when safe, while a solid line on your side prohibits it. A stop line is a solid line across your lane at a stop sign or traffic light; a give-way line is broken. Edge lines mark the road edge, and painted islands or chevron markings must not be driven on. Yellow markings typically relate to clearways, no stopping, or bus zones, so check the accompanying sign for times.
Common traps
- A speed limit sign applies from the sign to the next change or the end of the zone, not just at the sign itself.
- School zone times vary, so read the sign rather than assuming 8 to 9 and 3 to 4.
- A 'no stopping' line means you cannot stop even briefly, unlike 'no parking'.
- A give-way sign at a roundabout requires you to give way, not necessarily to stop.
- Some signs are direction-specific, such as keep left signs on islands.
Worked example
You see a double centre line with the broken line on your side. You may cross it to overtake a slower vehicle when it is safe and visibility is clear, but you must return before the line becomes solid on your side. If the solid line were on your side, you would not cross, even to overtake.