What does a red circle and a slash through it mean on a sign?

A sign featuring a red circle with a slash through it conveys that the action depicted is prohibited. This symbol is universally recognized as a clear indicator that specific behaviors or actions must not be executed in that area. For example, a sign showing a red circle with a slash through a picture of a bicycle would indicate that biking is not allowed in that location.

The use of red is critical in this context, as red typically signifies warnings or prohibitions, while the slash indicates a definitive restriction. This visual combination effectively communicates to drivers and pedestrians that they should refrain from the action that the sign describes. Understanding these signals is essential for ensuring safety and compliance with traffic laws.