What is a common objective of temporary traffic signals during maintenance?

Temporary traffic signals are primarily implemented during maintenance operations to assist in managing traffic flow effectively. When maintenance activities occur on roadways, these signals help control the movement of vehicles through the work zone, allowing for a safe transition past construction or maintenance sites.

By adjusting the timing of the signals, traffic can be directed in a way that minimizes delays and maintains a steady flow, even when lanes may be blocked or alternate routing is necessary. This is particularly important to ensure the safety of both the drivers and the maintenance workers on-site, as well as to keep the overall disruption to traffic at a minimum. The use of temporary signals provides clear guidance on when vehicles should stop and go, which is essential in dynamically changing conditions often present during maintenance work.

This strategic function contrasts with options that suggest confusing drivers or eliminating regulations, which are not beneficial objectives for any traffic management system. Maintaining proper traffic regulation is critical for safety, and temporary signals serve to uphold that regulation while adapting to the needs of the maintenance situation.