Signal ahead sign

Warning signs

Signal ahead sign

A traffic signal is ahead. Be ready to stop.

MUTCD designation W3-3. See the federal MUTCD, page 180.

How to read signs like this

Warning signs are usually yellow diamonds. They tell you about a hazard or change ahead (curves, intersections, merges, slippery roads) so you can slow down before you get there.

Practice question

  1. Road sign for this question

    What does this sign warn you to expect?

    • A A railroad crossing with lights is ahead
    • B A traffic signal is ahead that may be hard to see
    • C A stop sign is ahead out of view
    • D The signal ahead is flashing red, so treat it like a stop sign
    Show answer

    B. A traffic signal is ahead that may be hard to see

    This sign is used where a curve, hill, trees or parked vehicles can hide the signal until you are close. Slow down and be ready to stop if the light is yellow or red. It is a warning, so it does not tell you what the light will show.

    Source: MUTCD 11th ed., page 217

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