Are traffic control devices enforceable if they are not visible?

Traffic control devices, such as signs, signals, and markings, are designed to guide and regulate the behavior of drivers and pedestrians to ensure safety on the roads. For these devices to be enforceable, they must be visible and legible to those who are expected to comply with them. If a traffic control device is not visible, drivers cannot reasonably be expected to obey it, which undermines its purpose and effectiveness. Therefore, for enforcement of rules associated with these devices, visibility is a critical requirement.

In cases where a driver is cited for a violation related to a traffic control device, the ability of law enforcement to uphold that citation often hinges on the presence and visibility of that device at the time of the alleged offense. Consequently, violations typically cannot be enforced if the relevant traffic control devices were obscured or otherwise not visible to a reasonably attentive driver. This reinforces the principle that clarity, visibility, and proper placement of these devices are paramount for adherence to traffic laws.