What is defined as a road user or road condition that presents a possible danger?

A hazard is defined as a road user or a road condition that presents a possible danger. This can include anything that increases the likelihood of an accident, such as construction zones, unexpected road surfaces, pedestrians, or even weather conditions that impede safe driving. Identifying hazards is crucial for drivers as it prompts them to take the necessary precautions to ensure safety, whether that means reducing speed, increasing following distance, or being more vigilant.

Warning signs serve to alert drivers to potential hazards, but they do not themselves constitute the hazards. Obstacles refer to physical impediments on the roadway that may obstruct the path of a vehicle but are a subset of hazards. Traffic signals are designed to manage the flow of traffic and indicate when to stop or go, rather than directly representing dangers. Understanding these distinctions helps drivers to respond appropriately to various road situations.