33.4.28. What do these two road signs have in common?
UAЩо спільного у цих двох дорожніх знаків?
This exam question from the Traffic Rules of Ukraine tests attentiveness to the meaning of road signs and the correctness of choosing a maneuver at intersections and other places where restrictions or mandatory directions are introduced. Such situations are directly related to road safety: a mistake in understanding a sign can lead to a dangerous maneuver, conflict with other road users, and violation of traffic rules during the theoretical exam.
The question belongs to section 33 “Road Signs” and simultaneously covers mandatory and prohibitory signs: 4.5 “Movement straight or to the left” (p. 33.4) and 3.23 “Left turn prohibited” (p. 33.3). The first sign requires you to choose the direction straight or to the left, and according to the Traffic Rules, also allows making a U-turn (right turn is not allowed). The second sign prohibits only the left turn, but it is separately noted that a U-turn is permitted under it; therefore, the common feature for both is the possibility to make a U-turn (in the absence of other prohibitions at the location).
The analysis of options in this exam format comes down to an exact comparison of maneuvers: the statement about the prohibition of a U-turn is incorrect for both signs, and the permission or prohibition of a right turn cannot be a common feature, because sign 4.5 does not allow turning right, while 3.23 by itself does not prohibit a right turn. In practice, this knowledge helps to act correctly at the nearest intersection of carriageways and not to confuse “mandatory direction” with “prohibition of a specific turn,” which is a typical trap in the theoretical exam.
Clause 33.4 — 33 "Road signs", 4 "Mandatory signs", sign 4.5 "Movement straight or to the left"
"Allows movement only straight or to the left. The sign also permits U-turns of vehicles. The action of the sign does not apply to vehicles operating on established routes. The effect of the sign applies to the intersection of carriageways before which it is installed."
Clause 33.3 — 33 "Road signs", 3 "Prohibitory signs", sign 3.23 "Left turn prohibited"
"Prohibits left turns for vehicles. At the same time, U-turns are permitted. The action of the sign does not apply to vehicles operating on established routes. The effect of the sign applies to intersections of carriageways and other places before which it is installed."
That is, the correct answer is "U-turns are permitted," considering that according to the definition in the Traffic Rules, sign 4.5 explicitly allows U-turns, and sign 3.23 only prohibits left turns, while it is directly stated that U-turns are permitted.
To find what these two signs have in common, you need to compare which specific maneuver each of them allows or prohibits.
Sign 4.5 "Straight or Left Turn Only" belongs to the mandatory signs. It not only “permits” but obliges the driver at the nearest intersection of carriageways to choose one of the indicated directions: go straight or turn left. An important nuance: according to the Traffic Rules, this sign also allows making a U-turn. That is, you cannot go right, but you can make a U-turn.
Sign 3.23 "Left Turn Prohibited" belongs to the prohibitory signs. It restricts only one specific action — turning left at the place where the sign is installed. At the same time, the Traffic Rules explicitly state that a U-turn under this sign is allowed. Thus, the driver can go straight, right (unless otherwise prohibited), and can make a U-turn, but is not allowed to make a left turn.
Now the commonality is clear: although the signs differ in meaning (one sets mandatory directions, the other prohibits a specific turn), both do not prohibit a U-turn and, on the contrary, according to the rules, allow it.
Therefore, the correct answer is "Allow a U-turn," since sign 4.5 explicitly permits a U-turn along with going straight or left, and sign 3.23 prohibits only the left turn, leaving the U-turn allowed.