Drivers are often confused about the difference between a regulatory
sign and an advisory sign. A regulatory sign generally has black
characters or symbols on a white background and an advisory sign has
black characters or symbols on a yellow background. So,
what’s the difference?
The regulatory sign must be obeyed exactly as it is read. Examples of
regulatory signs include speed limits, turn restrictions, parking
restrictions and directional instructions. Failure to obey these signs
is an offence and the driver may be charged if they
choose not to follow the instruction.
If there is not a specific offence such as speeding or failing to stop
for the regulatory sign, a traffic ticket for disobeying a traffic
control device may be issued to the driver.
An advisory sign gives advance notice of conditions on or adjacent to a
highway that are potentially hazardous to traffic. A driver may choose
whether or not to follow the suggestion given by the sign. Ignoring the
advice is not an offence in itself, but anything
that happens because the signs are not given consideration may be an
offence.
A common advisory sign is the large diamond shaped sign shows a black
arrow on a yellow background telling drivers of a curve ahead.
Underneath it is a smaller square sign with black lettering on a yellow
background showing a speed of 30 km/h.
The example of the curve was chosen to illustrate a point. We have often
seen these signs and then traveled around the curve comfortably at
speeds higher than that suggested. In those cases the shape of the curve
and the road condition could accommodate the
vehicle traveling at the higher speed.
So why was the speed warning there? Often it is because the driver’s
line of sight is restricted. This would prevent the driver from seeing
and reacting to a hazard in or just beyond the corner unless the speed
was at or less than that suggested. Heavy trucks
may also be required to slow for the corner to prevent tipping over.
A relatively new (since 2012) advisory sign is black on a pink
background. These signs warn of an emergency incident ahead and tell
drivers to expect responders on the roadway. Proceed with caution as
full temporary traffic control may not yet have been established.
Failure to obey an advisory sign is only an offence if something happens
as a result of ignoring the advice and the offence is generally for the
misadventure that occurs.
Need a quick brush up on what road signs mean? Drop by your local Driver
Service Center (where you renew your driver’s licence) and ask for a
free copy of Learn to Drive Smart. The signs, signals and road markings
are explained in Chapter 3.
Story URL:
https://www.drivesmartbc.ca/signs-signals/regulatory-and-advisory-signs
—
Constable Tim Schewe (Retired)
DriveSmartBC: Where better than average road users satisfy their curiosity.