What type of traffic flow do traffic signals control?

Traffic signals are designed to manage the flow of vehicles and pedestrians at intersections, effectively regulating two-directional traffic. This means they control the movement of vehicles traveling in both directions across the intersection, allowing for the safe and orderly passage of cars, trucks, bicycles, and pedestrians.

The use of traffic signals helps prevent accidents and ensure that vehicles coming from opposite directions can navigate intersections safely. Signals provide designated times for each direction to move, usually indicated by colored lights (red, yellow, and green), which can direct vehicles to stop or proceed based on the traffic conditions.

While traffic signals can also manage pedestrian traffic and might influence the movement of commercial vehicles, their primary role is to organize the flow of traffic traveling in two directions through intersections. Thus, recognizing their function in controlling two-directional traffic is critical for understanding how traffic management systems operate in urban environments.