What does a pedestrian signal showing a red hand mean?

A pedestrian signal displaying a red hand indicates that walkers should not proceed across the street. This signal is a clear instruction for pedestrians to stay on the curb and wait until it is safe to cross. It emphasizes the importance of pedestrian safety by informing individuals that they should not enter the crosswalk while the red hand is illuminated. This aligns with traffic regulations that protect pedestrians by instructing them when it is unsafe to move.

In contrast, a walk signal typically allows pedestrians to cross, while a caution signal might indicate they can cross but with increased awareness of vehicle movement. The choice regarding waiting for a green light typically applies to vehicles rather than pedestrians directly. Understanding these signals is vital for ensuring safety while navigating through areas with vehicle traffic.