Authority of Traffic Police
When a traffic police officer is directing traffic, their signals OVERRIDE all traffic lights and road signs. You must always obey the officer's directions, even if they contradict what the traffic lights show.
Key Hand Signals
- Officer facing you with palm raised toward you — STOP. This is equivalent to a red light. You must not proceed.
- Officer's side facing you with arm extended horizontally — You may proceed. Traffic flowing parallel to the officer's outstretched arm may go.
- Officer beckoning you with hand — Move forward in the direction the officer is beckoning. Follow the officer's gesture.
- Officer waving arm up and down — Slow down. Reduce your speed as you approach.
Important Rules
- Always obey police signals even if they contradict traffic lights — the officer's directions take priority
- Slow down when approaching a junction where an officer is directing traffic
- Do not honk impatiently at an officer — wait for your signal to proceed
- If you are unsure of the officer's signal, stop and wait for a clearer instruction
Understanding the Officer's Position
- If the officer is facing you or has their back to you, you must STOP — you are seeing the "red light" equivalent
- If the officer's side is facing you (left or right shoulder pointing at you), you may proceed — you are seeing the "green light" equivalent
- Watch for additional hand gestures that may direct you to turn left, turn right, or go straight
Other Situations with Police Signals
- Police officers may set up roadblocks — slow down and follow their instructions
- At accident scenes, police officers may direct traffic around the scene — follow their signals carefully
- During events or emergencies, police may override normal traffic flow — always comply
Key Tips
- Stay alert and watch the officer's hand movements carefully
- Make eye contact with the officer when possible to confirm their signal is directed at you
- Proceed smoothly and predictably — do not make sudden movements
- Failure to obey a traffic police officer's signal is an offense carrying demerit points and fines