the traffic lights It is an indispensable universal language designed to organize and regulate the flow of vehicles on streets, roads and highways. Any individual controlling a motor vehicle must know the codes to ensure their safety and the safety of third parties.
In the Argentine Republic, the Unified Road Signage System (SSVU) was created. Four main categories of signals: Regulatory or mandatory rules, which impose obligations or prohibitions; Preventive ones that warn of risks. Informatics that guides the driver; and temporary, which are used temporarily in construction areas.
Within the organizational category, there are Two symbols that often cause confusion Because of their similar graphic design. The distinction between them is crucial and represents the difference between an absolute ban on traffic and an obligation to stop.
Firstly, A sign marked R2 indicates wrong way or prohibited entry. This mark is usually a circle with a red border and a white horizontal line in the middle. Its meaning is definitive, indicating that the road the driver is approaching is opposite the direction of traffic, and thus entry is prohibited.
On the other hand, there is another circular sign that is often confused with the previous sign. Known in some systems as R25, it has a different design in that it consists of a circle with a white background, a red border, and a black horizontal line in the middle.
Although it is visually similar to the R2, its function is completely different, as it means Checkpoint or mandatory detention.
This signal is frequently observed in Entering or exiting national roadsas detailed in the Argentine Signals Guide.
Correct interpretation of these signals is vital. A study on road knowledge could reveal that discrepancies relate not only between bans, but also in the unusual restrictions seen in certain areas of the country.
Some regulatory signs restrict traffic to types of vehicles rarely found in urban traffic. For example, prohibiting the circulation of animal-drawn vehicles, agricultural tractors or horse riders (R3), are examples of this. Regulations that are strictly enforced in rural or semi-urban areas This is unknown to the average driver.
Likewise, signs enforcing width (R13) or height (R12) limits are only found in tunnels or underpasses, but ignoring them can lead to serious accidents.
inside Protective signswhich are usually designed in a diamond shape with a yellow background, and there are also less common icons that warn of natural or unusual dangers.
Indicators Low flights, strong side winds or drawbridge They are essential for road safety in certain parts, such as coastal areas or airports.
These signs warn of it Physical riskswhile others, such as the one indicating stone outcroppings, alert the driver about it Road conditionIt is recommended to slow down to avoid damage or accidents.
The National Traffic Law emphasizes the necessity of adhering to these warnings, as failure to obey them is equated with violating priority regulations.