What is the purpose of traffic cones and barriers?

The primary purpose of traffic cones and barriers is to direct and control traffic flow for safety. These tools are instrumental in managing vehicle and pedestrian movement, especially in situations where the normal flow of traffic is disrupted, such as construction zones, accidents, or road maintenance. By guiding vehicles and pedestrians safely around hazardous areas, traffic cones and barriers help prevent accidents and ensure that individuals remain aware of their surroundings, contributing to overall road safety.

Traffic cones are typically used to delineate lanes, mark off hazardous zones, or signify temporary changes in traffic patterns. Barriers can provide a more secure physical demarcation to keep vehicles separated from construction areas or direct them to alternate routes, reducing the risk of collisions and injuries.

While some options might imply other uses for cones and barriers, such as blocking traffic entirely or deterring pedestrians, these are not their primary functions. Effective traffic management prioritizes safety and efficiency, making the direction and control of traffic flow their foremost objective. This ensures that roadways remain navigable and safe for all users, highlighting the importance of understanding the correct purpose of these tools in traffic law enforcement practices.