What type of signage must be present when there’s a reduced speed limit in a highway work zone?

In highway work zones where a reduced speed limit is enforced, it is crucial to have appropriate warning signs in place. These signs serve multiple purposes: they alert drivers to the presence of construction or maintenance activities ahead, inform them of the need to slow down, and provide critical safety information to prevent accidents in zones where workers may be present.

Warning signs are typically highly visible and often use bright colors and symbols to ensure that they capture the attention of drivers. They can include messages about the reduced speed limit, the presence of workers, and other hazards associated with the work zone. Having these signs in place enhances safety for both drivers and road workers by clearly communicating the need for caution.

In contrast, advisory signs, while useful in certain contexts, do not have the same regulatory authority as warning signs and may not effectively compel drivers to reduce speed. Similarly, no signage at all would leave drivers unprepared for the change in road conditions, increasing the risk of accidents. Directional signs serve to guide traffic but do not communicate changes in speed limits or potential hazards. Therefore, warning signs are the necessary signage to ensure both compliance with reduced speed limits and the overall safety of the work zone environment.