Why are placards used on vehicles carrying hazardous materials?

Placards are crucial safety measures required on vehicles transporting hazardous materials. Their primary purpose is to warn others of the presence of these dangerous substances, providing essential information to emergency responders, other motorists, and pedestrians. When a vehicle is visibly marked with the appropriate placards, it alerts everyone nearby that the cargo may pose risks such as flammability, toxicity, radioactivity, or corrosiveness. This warning is vital for ensuring safety during transportation and in the event of an accident.

While complying with transportation regulations is also essential, the fundamental role of placards centers on public safety and awareness about the potential hazards involved. Additionally, although informing the driver about cargo contents and advertising services are relevant considerations, these functions do not reflect the primary purpose of placarding. The main focus remains on alerting those who may encounter the vehicle to the possible dangers associated with its load.