You can notice many traffic and road signs on Canadian routes. They all have unique features and symbols, so you should know what each sign tells you. Today, you will learn about many important road signs in Canada and their meanings.
32 Canadian Road Signs and Meanings
Divided Highway Ends Road Sign
It means the highway ahead has no center barrier. You must stay in your lane because traffic will move in both directions.
Pass Either Side Sign
It is a diamond shaped sign & has two black arrows which point to the left and right routes. These symbols show you that you can pass through the divider (narrow bridge, obstacle, island) by driving your car either left or right.
Equestrian Crossing Sign
This sign tells you that horses may cross the road ahead of you. That’s why you must slow down, stay alert, and watch for horses as well.
Crossroad Road Sign
Crossroad signs are placed to tell you that another road will cross your current road. You should reduce speed & be prepared to stop your jeep if needed. Also, take notice of both ways for incoming traffic and allow other vehicles to cross the road.
Uncontrolled Crossroad From Left Sign
When you see no stop signs & traffic lights on the road, these signs are actually installed to guide you. It indicates that another road will join the main road from your left side.
T Section Sign
Basically, it warns you that you cannot drive your car in a straight lane any more. So, you can only turn left & right. In Canada, you observe these signs in country (outside cities /towns) areas.
Sharp Left Turn Sign
These signs are installed at tight beds and tell you about a steep turn to the left side of the road you are on. Due to this sudden curve, you will have to change the direction of your car to the left.
Right Curve Sign
This warns you that the road ahead of you will bend to the right. In case, if you drive too fast, your car might lose the right lane. You must get ready for the curve plus slow down a little and handle that curve gently.
Road Narrow on Right Sign or Sign For Narrow Road
The right side narrow road is indicated by a diamond shape design where you see narrow lines on the right. These signs are placed where the right side of the road is tight. You must drive carefully so that you can avoid hitting the edge.
Crosswind Sign
Actually, this sign is placed in areas where strong winds can hit your vehicle. You will often see it near open bridges, fields & highways. So, you should hold a strong grip on your steering.
Railway Crossing Without Barrier
Well, it tells you that train tracks will cross the road ahead. But, you will see no gate or barrier to stop you. Basically, these places are open so you must slow down and look both ways. Plus, you have to make sure no train is coming before you cross.
Road Narrows on the Left
To indicate the narrow left side of the road, this sign is used. Transport Canada placed it to warn you & keep your vehicle centered. In such areas, you should avoid sudden moves.
HOV Lane Sign
It means the lane is only available for your High-Occupancy Vehicles (HOV) such as cars with two or more people, buses & carpools. In Canada, mostly this sign is used to reduce traffic. If you are alone in your car, you should not use this lane otherwise you may get fined.
Steep Descent Sign
This sign means the road ahead is sharply downhill. So, you need to slow down & must use a lower gear to keep your vehicle stable. So that you can stay safe when you go down the slope.
Side Road Sign/Merge Sign Meaning
Generally, you see these signs where another route merges the main road from the side. You will find other vehicles will join your road. You should provide enough space for others to merge on the main road.
Double Curve Sign
This sign warns you about two curves ahead in a way that one after the other. For example: the road will first bend in one direction, then it bends the other way. You need to have good control & must stay alert through both turns.
U Turn Sign Meaning
It tells you that you are allowed to turn your vehicle back at that spot. You will only observe them in areas which are wide enough for your safe U turn. So that you can avoid risky turns & can change direction without traffic blockage.
Skiing Symbol
Skiing symbols are placed where the skiing zone is nearby you. Because, people may cross the road with their ski equipment (skis/poles). Hence, you should carefully cross the road.
Signal Ahead Sign
It warns you about traffic signals approaching you ahead. So, you can prepare to slow down your automobile or stop when it is required. Mostly, you will find this sign where it’s hard for you to see lights.
Two Way Traffic Symbol
As the name shows, it guides you that traffic will be moving from both directions of highway. You must stay in your lane and don’t try to pass other vehicles.
Y Intersection Sign
A Y-intersection sign tells you that the road ahead breaks into two parts. You should watch cars from both sides and then take turns in either direction. Typically, its purpose is to alert you that a path change is required.
Deer Crossing Sign/Reindeer Crossing Road Sign
Reindeer sign is basically general wild animal warning signs but has a deer symbol. You will majorly see it in northern or rural areas.
Divided Highway Ahead
To inform you that your current road is going to divide in two ways. Furthermore, you will see a divider in the middle of the highway.
Moose Crossing Sign
Specifically in Canada, these signs used to show the presence of moose around you. You need to be extra careful because moose can cross the road anytime.
Left Curve Sign Means
Indicate that road ahead will bend to the left, so you have to turn your wheel gently to stay in control.
Added Lane Sign
It shows you that a new lane will join your road from the side. You don’t need to merge, just stay in your lane.
One Way Street Sign Meaning
This sign tells you that all cars must go in the same direction. Don’t drive in the wrong way & always follow the arrow.
Next Exit Sign
Gives you a warning that you are getting close to a highway exit. So, if you want to leave, move to the exit lane.
Lane Use Signs
It shows you which directions you can go from each lane at an intersection. Also, guides you on which turn/movement is allowed in specific lanes.
Permissive Sign
A permissive sign shows you what actions are allowed on the road such as turning or parking. If you see it, you have legal permission to do what the sign conveys you.
Shared Pedestrian Cycle Path Sign
The path is shared by both people who walk and people who ride bikes. Hence, you should respect others when you use the same path.
Snowmobile Crossing Sign
Installed where people on snowmobiles might be crossing the road. You must reduce your car speed for safe crossing for all.
Final Words
We can say now you are well aware about all major Canada road signs. Their specialty is that Canada is not bound to the international traffic sign system. TAC (Transportation Association of Canada) made laws for traffic signs.
For further details, contact the JACKWIN team now. We will guide you and also offer road safety signs for your projects.
More Resources:
How to Park a Car: Ultimate Guide for Beginners
Traffic Lane Separators For Parking Lots and Private Roadways
