What is the purpose of a yield sign?

The purpose of a yield sign is to advise drivers to give way to others. When approaching a yield sign, drivers are required to slow down and assess whether they need to stop to allow any vehicles or pedestrians with the right of way to proceed safely. This might occur at intersections, merging lanes, or when entering a roundabout. The yield sign communicates the need for caution and the importance of maintaining safety by prioritizing the right of way for other road users over proceeding without regard to their presence.

In contrast, a complete stop is indicated by a stop sign, and the yield sign does not mandate a full halt unless necessary. Additionally, yield signs do not indicate a safe speed; that function is served by speed limit signs. Similarly, yield signs do not signal the end of a speed zone, which is usually indicated by specific signage indicating the speed limit changes. Hence, the yield sign's primary role is to ensure that drivers understand when to give way, promoting safer interaction between vehicles and other road users.