What do the regulator signals mean?

Who is a regulator?

A traffic controller is a person authorized to regulate road traffic, wearing a uniform and/or having a distinctive sign (armband, traffic controller's baton, red reflector). A traffic controller is usually a police officer, but may also be a crossing guard, road worker, or other person authorized to regulate traffic. The traffic controller usually stands in the middle of the intersection.

The regulator's instructions take precedence with regard to traffic light signals, road signs and road markings, as well as the requirements of the Highway Code.

Traffic controller signals are displayed by different hand positions of the controller, and a whistle is used to announce that the controller's instructions will soon change.

Traffic signals are an important part of the Road Traffic Act (RTA) as they are used to regulate traffic, especially in situations where traffic lights are not working or when traffic conditions require direct control. Paid and free RTA tickets include questions about traffic signals, as this knowledge is essential for all drivers. 

What do the regulator signals mean?

Arms outstretched to the sides or lowered

• Driving straight and to the right is allowed from the right and left sides.

• Pedestrians are allowed to cross the roadway from the right and left sides.

• All vehicle and pedestrian traffic is prohibited from the chest and back.

Right arm extended forward

• Driving in all directions is allowed from the left side.

• From the chest side, only right-hand travel is allowed.

• All vehicle traffic is prohibited from the rear and right side.

• Pedestrians are allowed to cross the roadway behind the traffic controller.

Hand raised up

• Everyone is prohibited from moving in any direction.

• Everyone must stop without changing lanes.

What are the other signals from the regulator?

• The driver must stop the vehicle, the pedestrian must stop when the inspecting officer or the traffic controller gives a signal - waving the traffic controller's stick or a circle with a red reflector directed at the road user, or ordering to stop through a loudspeaker. The STOP signal may also be indicated in special colors and on a light board installed in a marked car with the relevant service mark.

• In order to attract the attention of road users, the inspecting officer or regulator may blow a whistle. Upon receiving a signal to stop, the driver must immediately stop the vehicle at the indicated place ; if no place is indicated, on the right shoulder of the road, and if there is no shoulder of the road, on the right edge of the carriageway.