DRIVERS have a lot of different signs and rules to be aware of on the road, but the ring road sign in particular has had many scratching their heads about what it means.
Many road signs are self-explanatory, but some aren't quite so straightforward, even for the most experienced drivers.
What is a ring road sign?
A ring road sign lets drivers know they're on a road that goes around a town or city rather than through it.
You may spot it as you head onto the road, and whilst you're on it you might see it on posts along the side.
Different road signs have different meanings, which you can tell from both the shape and the colour of them.
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A sign that's a circle gives an order - this means drivers must follow them so they aren't breaking the law.
If it's blue, it means you must do what it says, whilst if it's red, it means there's something you must NOT do.
A sign that's a triangle gives drivers a warning - it may mean there's something coming up that could take them by surprise, such as a sharp bend.
There's even a triangular warning sign that tells you that ducks might be crossing the road ahead - although maybe not ones like this.
What does a ring road sign look like?
Like all information signs, a ring road sign is rectangular - meaning it's there to tell drivers something about the road they're on.
They might look a little different depending on what type of road it is, as different road types have different coloured signs.
If you're on a main or primary road, it's a white capital R on a green background with a yellow rectangular border.
On a smaller or secondary road, it may just be in black and white.
You'll also usually see it written out on directional signage - such as when approaching a roundabout.
Other types of roads can have different coloured signs - for example a motorway will have signs that are all blue with white writing.
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What is the meaning of a ring road sign?
The ring road sign lets you know the road you're on will go around the town or city centre, meaning you will hopefully avoid any busier local roads.
Most towns and cities have some sort of ring road - such as the North Circular in London and the Leeds Outer Ring Road.
They're particularly helpful at rush hour, which is when the roads tend to be busiest with people either going to work or heading back home afterwards.
It also might mean that there is a change of the speed limit to be aware of, which will be indicated on other signs.
