Final answer:
A sign-free intersection can have both positive and negative impacts on traffic flow rate. A traffic signal can slow down vehicles and improve pedestrian safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
A sign-free intersection can have both positive and negative impacts on traffic flow rate.
A potential positive impact is that many vehicles speed through the intersection without regard to the posted speed limit. A traffic signal would make vehicles slow down, preventing them from speeding through the intersection.
On the other hand, a potential negative impact is that pedestrians would have to dodge traffic to cross the intersection. If a traffic signal is installed, pedestrians can cross at appropriate times, improving pedestrian safety.