Be prepared to stop sign

Warning signs

Be prepared to stop sign

Traffic ahead may be stopped or slowing. Be ready to stop.

MUTCD designation W3-4. See the federal MUTCD, page 217.

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 word sign warn you about?

    • A Traffic ahead may be stopped, often at a signal
    • B A flagger is directing traffic ahead
    • C You must stop at this sign and then continue when clear
    • D The road ahead is closed to all traffic
    Show answer

    A. Traffic ahead may be stopped, often at a signal

    This word sign warns of stopped or queued traffic you might come upon suddenly. It is often placed after a signal-ahead sign, sometimes with flashing lights that come on when the signal is red. Slow down and be ready to stop.

    Source: MUTCD 11th ed., page 217

Related signs

All road signs · Road sign flashcards (free)