What is the primary purpose of a traffic signal?

The primary purpose of a traffic signal is to manage both vehicle and pedestrian traffic flow. Traffic signals are designed to control the movement of traffic at intersections by providing clear and understandable visual signals to drivers and pedestrians. This helps in ensuring safety and efficiency by regulating the timing of vehicle movement and pedestrian crossing, thereby reducing the risk of accidents.

In busy urban environments, effective traffic management is crucial for maintaining order and preventing congestion. Traffic signals accomplish this by alternating green, yellow, and red lights for vehicles, while at the same time providing pedestrians with designated crossing times. The careful coordination between both vehicle and pedestrian signals is essential for optimizing traffic flow and enhancing overall safety in transportation systems.

While assisting in vehicle navigation and displaying real-time traffic data can have their benefits, they are not the primary functions of traffic signals. Similarly, regulating parking availability is outside the core responsibility of traffic signals, which focus solely on managing traffic at intersections.