What is the function of a speed limit sign?

A speed limit sign serves the important function of indicating the maximum speed allowed for vehicles on a specific road or section of roadway. This legal restriction helps ensure safety by minimizing the risk of accidents that can occur when drivers exceed safe speeds due to conditions such as traffic, weather, or road design. Adhering to the posted maximum speed limit can reduce the severity of crashes and improve overall traffic flow.

In contrast, other options may present ambiguous interpretations of speed regulation. For instance, a sign conveying minimum speeds is less common and is typically used only in certain situations, such as on highway ramps. Suggesting an ideal speed is also not the purpose of speed limit signs; instead, they provide enforceable limits pertaining to maximum vehicle speed. Finally, the idea of challenging drivers to drive faster is both misleading and contrary to the purpose of traffic regulation, which aims to promote safety and lawful behavior on the roads. Therefore, identifying the maximum speed limit accurately encapsulates the function of these signs within traffic management.