The Most Texas Texas Road Signs
With more than 79,000 miles of roads, the Lone Star State has thousands upon thousands of signs directing where to turn, where not to turn, and how to get to the next stop. Some of them may be confusing, but each one conveys a specific message intended to help drivers get where they need to go safely.
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, all traffic signs fall into three categories: yellow or orange warning signs, which indicate unexpected conditions or changes; red, black, or white regulatory signs, which display traffic laws; and green, blue, or brown guide signs that provide helpful or interesting information.
And because Texas is home to some of the major cities of U.S. and some of the best rural landscapes, these signs can vary from super-high speed limits to wildlife crossings.
Farm-to-Market Roads
Drive practically any distance outside of a city and you are bound to come upon a black square with the words “Farm Road” flanking a Texas silhouette. As many native Texans know, you don’t actually say “farm road” but rather “Farm-to-Market Road” or “F.M.” for short. Originally conceived as a way to improve access to rural areas, this network of mostly small paved roads now includes hundreds of routes that vary in length from less than a mile to nearly 140 miles.
Toll Roads
A more recent (and less popular) breed of road signs include the ones denoting the new wave of toll roads. These signs look similar to normal freeway signs except that the word “toll” or “express” has been placed adjacent to the highway number. Proceed on these roads at the risk of your pocketbook.
Country Roads
Country driving presents a different set of hazards. A yellow diamond with a farmer in a cowboy hat sitting atop a tractor means you may encounter farm equipment going from field to field. Thankfully, a similar sign without a driver does not denote the presence of zombie tractors. However, it is a warning that you may have to slow down for a plow or combine, so be prepared while enjoying the scenery.
Four-legged Texans
Texas also has signs to warn of the presence of deer, cattle, people riding horses, bears, sheep, donkeys, and wild horses. There are two signs to warn of the presence of pelicans.
Other Vehicles
There are even signs warning of golf carts and snowmobiles, though you would be hard-pressed to find that last one in most of the state.
Children
One sign that you won’t see much these days is the slow children at play road sign. This is not because children have gotten faster over the years. Studies showed that these signs were largely ineffective. Instead, you will find signs telling you where kids cross the street and, of course, when you are near a school.
Driving may seem overwhelming at times. Having the right insurance coverage and brushing up on the rules of the road will help ensure that whether you drive around the corner or across the state, you will arrive at your destination safely. Call your local Texas Farm Bureau Insurance Agent today to sign up or review your auto policy.
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