An arrow painted on the pavement means:
Drivers in the proper lane may make the movement indicated by the arrow, if they choose to do so.
Drivers in the proper lane must make the movement indicated by the arrow, but only if traffic lights are not working.
Drivers in the proper lane must always come to a complete stop before making the movement indicated by the arrow.
Drivers in the proper lane must make the movement indicated by the arrow while following directions indicated by traffic signals.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
Drivers in the proper lane must make the movement indicated by the arrow while following directions indicated by traffic signals.
Explanation:
An arrow painted on the pavement typically functions as a lane control device. It indicates the direction in which a driver must proceed from the specific lane in which they are traveling. This type of lane marking provides guidance to ensure traffic flows smoothly and safely, directing drivers to make necessary turns or continue in a specific direction.
The key detail in the correct answer is that drivers must follow the direction of the arrow, but they must do so while adhering to the rules indicated by traffic signals. In other words, the painted arrow alone does not override traffic signals or signs. For example, if there is a green arrow pointing left, drivers in the lane marked with that arrow must turn left, provided the traffic signal allows it (e.g., if the signal is green for that direction). Similarly, if the signal is red, even though there may be a left-turn arrow, the driver must stop and wait, as they must obey the traffic signal.
This differs from other options:
- The first option suggests drivers may make the indicated movement at their discretion, which is incorrect because the arrow is a directive, not an optional guide.
- The second option introduces the condition of traffic signals not working, but an arrow’s directive still applies when signals are functioning, so this option doesn’t align with standard traffic rules.
- The third option mentions stopping, which isn’t always necessary unless a stop sign or red light is in effect.
Thus, the most accurate description of the painted arrow’s purpose on the pavement is that it guides the movement of vehicles in the proper lane, while always being subject to the prevailing traffic signals.