What is the purpose of traffic signals?

Traffic signals serve to manage the flow of traffic, ensure safety, and provide direction to drivers. They help prevent accidents at intersections and convey instructions to vehicles and pedestrians about when to stop or go, thereby facilitating smoother traffic movement and minimizing congestion^[1][3].

Additionally, traffic signals are designed with various types and complexities to accommodate different road conditions, traffic volumes, and user interactions, adapting to the evolving needs of urban landscapes^[4]. By coordinating traffic phases and timings, they play a crucial role in enhancing efficiency and safety at intersections, where most accidents occur^[3][4].