You may see a ford sign in your daily life on roads. But many drivers don’t know what this sign really warns them about.
Therefore, today we will talk about the meaning of a ford sign, its hazards, location and safety rules. After reading this topic, you can easily stay safe and avoid accidents.
Ford Road Sign Meaning
A ford road sign means there is a shallow water crossing ahead. It is a type of traffic sign. Basically, it warns you that the road goes through water, not over a bridge. Therefore, you must slow your vehicle and confirm the water level before you move forward.
Keep this in mind, this sign does not allow you to drive faster. Because your vehicle may lose control in water. So, check the depth & surface of the road.
Triangle Ford Road Sign or Ford Sign Red Triangle
A ford road sign has a clear warning shape. It shows a red border triangle with a white center. Inside this triangle, you see a car and water symbol. This shape tells you about the danger of water ahead. In this way, you spot it early from a distance.
This triangle does not appear for normal road rules. It is designated only for warning signs like ford crossings. The shape, symbol and color work together. You understand fast that water may cover the road. This helps you take care before you drive ahead.
Related Topic: Triangle Road Signs Meaning: 20 Triangular Signs & Colors
What Should You Do After a Ford?
After a ford sign, you must slow your vehicle at once. After that, check the water level if the water gauge is installed. You can also look at other vehicles that pass through. At such a place you should use a low gear and move your car slowly. Remember, you must sustain a steady speed when you cross.
Furthermore, avoid sudden brakes or sharp turns. Because water may hide holes or loose stones. If the water looks deep you should stop and check for another safe route if possible.
What is Road May Flood Sign?
A road may flood is a sign that tells you that water can cover the road at any time. You often see it near rivers, low areas plus drainage paths. Actually, it warns you that the road may not stay dry, especially after rain. This sign tells you to stay alert and slow down your vehicle. On the symbol board, you usually see waves under a car. These waves show the possibility of water on the road.
Well, this sign relates closely to a ford sign. A ford sign warns about a water crossing. On the other hand, a flood sign warns you that water may suddenly appear on the road. Basically, both signs guide you to check the road and protect you from water before you move ahead.
What is a Ford Hazard?
A ford hazard means real danger that is present due to water on the road. When you ignore a ford sign you may face many hazards. For example; your tires may lose grip and go off the road or your vehicle may stop in the middle of water. Because water can hide deep holes or broken surfaces.
If your car is stuck in the middle of water then water can damage your engine and brakes. Furthermore, when there is strong flow it may push your car which may cause an overturn. At night or in rain, this can be more risky. This is why you may see temporary barriers there.
Common Ford Road Sign Locations
- Rivers and Streams: You may see near rivers or streams because you can face shallow water there.
- Low Lying Roads: These roads are present near sea levels and flood plains. Therefore, you encounter a ford sign that informs you about the high possibility of floods during heavy rain.
- Rural Roads: As you know in rural areas, many roads cross small streams, rivers or irrigation channels. This is why you find a ford sign there.
- Bridges without Rails: Ford signs are placed before these bridges to warn you. Because, the edges may be unsafe.
- Near Dams or Other Reservoirs: Near dams, water levels can change in no time. Even sometimes, water is released suddenly onto nearby roads.
Ford Sign UK Meaning
When you see a ford sign in UK, it delivers the same meaning (shallow water crossing ahead). This sign is placed at a ford, which is a shallow part of the river.
Normally, it is safe for you to cross on foot or by vehicle if the water looks calm. But still you should always watch the water level and road condition. The shape of the sign board is also the same in the UK (triangle) and you may see text “FORD” on it.
Is It Safe to Drive Through a Ford?
Well, the answer to this question depends on the depth and water flow when you approach it. In case when the water is shallow & slow, you can drive through safely. But, if water is deep or flowing fast, you must wait and take precautionary measures.
You always need to check the level of the road, potholes, gutters and other vehicles. So, if the water looks safe and your car is small, you generally don’t need to stop, but stay alert.
Is There Any Sign Used With the Ford Sign?
Yes, a gauge sign is often used with a ford sign. The gauge shows the depth of the water on the road. It looks like a small vertical scale that is installed next to the ford symbol. This measurement gauge helps you to see if your car can safely cross. Therefore, you must check the levels on the gauge before driving.
If the water level is high then stop & wait. In addition, when the gauge sign shows too high a level, you should change your path. This is why it works with the ford sign to protect you.
Final Words
In the end, you can see ford traffic signs are important to keep drivers safe near water crossings. Moreover, you should also take care a lot to see other signs placed along this ford. Because other signs will help you further evaluate the whole situation in a better way.
If you have inquiry related to ford signs or any other road sign you can send us a message.
See Also:
Understanding Traffic Sign Shapes and Their Meanings
Traffic Sign History: Interesting & Ancient Facts From Romans
