A Correlational Study on the Visual Clarity and Comprehension Effectiveness of Road Signages among Drivers in Dumaguete City

The study evaluated the effectiveness of road signages in Dumaguete City in terms of drivers’ perceived visual clarity and level of comprehension, and examined the relationship between these variables within a usability-based framework. A quantitative descriptive-correlational research design was employed using purposive sampling among 110 licensed drivers who regularly operate vehicles within the city. Data were collected through a validated and reliability-tested questionnaire consisting of visual clarity assessment and a comprehension test of selected regulatory, warning, and informatory signs. Statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, weighted mean, standard deviation, and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient were used to analyze the data. Results revealed that the perceived visual clarity of road signages, in terms of visibility, legibility, and conspicuity, was generally at a moderate level, indicating room for improvement in signage design and placement. In contrast, drivers’ comprehension of road signs was found to be high to very high, although inconsistencies were observed, particularly in warning signs. The findings further showed no significant relationship between drivers’ profile (age and educational attainment) and perceived visual clarity, while educational attainment demonstrated a significant relationship with comprehension. Additionally, visibility was found to have a significant relationship with driver comprehension, whereas legibility and conspicuity did not. The study highlights the importance of optimizing signage visibility and simplifying design features to enhance driver understanding. Based on the findings, a targeted road signage improvement plan was proposed to address identified gaps and support safer and more efficient traffic management.