What is the main purpose of flag persons located on highways and in work zones?

Flag persons play a crucial role in ensuring safety on highways and in work zones. Their primary responsibility is to manage the flow of traffic in areas where construction or maintenance work is taking place. By stopping, slowing, or guiding vehicles, they help prevent accidents and protect both workers and drivers. When drivers approach a work zone, clear instructions from flag persons help minimize confusion and reduce the risk of collisions, as these areas often involve unexpected changes in road conditions and traffic patterns.

The other options highlight different functions that are important for roadway safety but do not specifically relate to the purpose of flag persons. For instance, while monitoring speed limits is vital for road safety, it typically falls under the jurisdiction of law enforcement. Similarly, directing emergency vehicles is a specialized task that becomes necessary in critical situations but is not the primary function of flag persons. Lastly, assisting in road maintenance is an important activity, yet it encompasses a broader range of responsibilities beyond the immediate traffic management that flag persons provide.