Final answer:
Traffic signals and posted traffic signs must both be followed for controlling vehicle speed and ensuring pedestrian safety. They are crucial where high traffic volume and regular pedestrian crossing occur, as they help prevent accidents and enhance overall safety at intersections.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the presence of traffic signal/sign combinations, the two things that must be followed are the traffic signals themselves and the posted traffic signs. These elements are designed to control vehicle flow and ensure pedestrian safety.
The first reason to adhere to these signals is to control vehicle speed. Traffic signals enforce slowdowns and prevent vehicles from speeding through signals, directly addressing the issue of vehicles racing through intersections with no regard for speed limits.
Moreover, pedestrian safety is a paramount concern. Intersections near campuses are frequented by students and other pedestrians, and without a proper traffic signal system, they are forced to navigate through moving traffic, which can be hazardous. Thus, a traffic signal allows for orderly pedestrian crossing at designated times, enhancing safety.
Additionally, a higher number of vehicular accidents, sometimes with severe consequences such as loss of life, is a critical factor for the installation of traffic signals. These measures not only help in managing the increased traffic from nearby developments and changes in traffic patterns, such as those caused by the opening of new businesses or changes in routes for events, but they also significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents.