FAQs About Highway Markers

Drivers love highways for providing uninterrupted travel and nearly unlimited connections between places. Highway travel also provides an economical way to transport large groups of people or goods. Driving safely on the highway requires the driver to understand traffic safety principles and obey all posted signs.

Q: Is driving the speed limit required?

A: Yes. Speed limits are posted on the right hand side of the highway on rectangular signs. They are written in black text and appear on a white background. Common highway speed limits include 55, 65, 70 and 75 miles per hour. Local and highway authorities issue citations for exceeding the speed limit, which can result in court appearances and hefty fines. Paying attention to speed limit signs is important to maintain safety for all drivers. Some places create speed traps by posting lower speed limits in the middle of high-speed stretches of roadway in an attempt to cite speeders that are not paying attention to signs.

Q: What are those small signs with numbers along the roadside?

A: Postcard-sized green signs, with numerals on the right hand side of the roadway, are mile-markers. It is important to pay attention to these in case car trouble occurs. A driver might need to describe the vehicle's location to roadside assistance or emergency personnel. In some places, mile markers correspond with exit numbers to allow drivers to know how far they are from their destination.

Q: What is a "safety corridor?"

A: A "safety corridor" sign denotes a stretch of road that has high rates of accidents, speeding violations, drivers under the influence, high truck traffic or just a high volume of traffic. Enforcement agencies often require drivers to turn on their headlights in these zones, and fines can double for infractions.