What is the main purpose of a driver placarding their vehicle?

The primary purpose of a driver placarding their vehicle is to communicate risk. Placards are used to inform others about the nature of the hazardous materials being transported, which is crucial for safety during transit and in the event of an emergency. These placards display important information regarding the potential hazards associated with the cargo, helping first responders, law enforcement, and the general public understand the risks involved and respond appropriately during incidents such as spills or accidents.

While indicating the type of cargo, providing information to law enforcement, and displaying the destination of the shipment are relevant aspects of transporting hazardous materials, they do not capture the primary essence of placarding. The critical function lies in risk communication to mitigate dangers associated with hazardous materials on the road.