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Road signs in the United States: Difference between revisions

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Warning signs are found in the W series of the national MUTCD. They highlight existing conditions, such as a curve, school, dead end street, or traffic signal. They can also warn of possible danger such as bumps, bicycles, low flying aircraft, or emergency vehicles. They are either yellow or fluorescent yellow in color and, with a few exceptions, are usually diamond-shaped and sometimes have square or rectangular smaller signs or plaques associated with them. Most W series signs can also be found with orange backgrounds for temporary use in situations such as construction zones. Some of the temporary-use signs are for use only in temporary situations.
Warning signs are found in the W series of the national MUTCD. They highlight existing conditions, such as a curve, school, dead end street, or traffic signal. They can also warn of possible danger such as bumps, bicycles, low flying aircraft, or emergency vehicles. They are either yellow or fluorescent yellow in color and, with a few exceptions, are usually diamond-shaped and sometimes have square or rectangular smaller signs or plaques associated with them. Most W series signs can also be found with orange backgrounds for temporary use in situations such as construction zones. Some of the temporary-use signs are for use only in temporary situations.


=== W1 series: Horizontal alignment ===
=== W1 series: Turns and curves ===
The MUTCD's W1 series of signs is for warning signs relating to horizontal alignment As not all situations are covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.
The MUTCD's W1 series of signs is for warning signs relating to turns and curves. As not all situations are covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.


<gallery widths="80" heights="80" class="center" caption="Curves and Turns">
<gallery widths="80" heights="80" class="center" caption="Curves and Turns">
File:MUTCD W1-1R.svg|Turn
File:MUTCD W1-1R.svg|Turn
File:MUTCD W1-2L.svg|Curve
File:MUTCD W1-2L.svg|Curve
File:MUTCD W1-10R.svg|Curve with minor road
File:MUTCD W1-3L.svg|Reverse turn
File:MUTCD W1-3L.svg|Reverse turn
File:MUTCD W1-4R.svg|Reverse curve
File:MUTCD W1-4R.svg|Reverse curve
File:MUTCD W1-6L.svg|Arrow
File:MUTCD W1-7.svg|Double arrow
File:MUTCD W1-8L.svg|Chevron
File:MUTCD W1-5R.svg|Winding road
File:MUTCD W1-5R.svg|Winding road
File:MUTCD W1-11L.svg|Turn around road
File:MUTCD W1-6L.svg|One-direction large arrow
File:MUTCD W1-13L.svg|Truck rollover warning
File:MUTCD W1-7.svg|Two-direction large arrow
File:MUTCD W1-8L.svg|Chevron alignment
File:MUTCD W1-10R.svg|Intersection within curve
File:MUTCD W1-11L.svg|Hairpin curve
File:MUTCD W1-13R.svg|Truck rollover warning
</gallery>
</gallery>


=== W2 series: Junctions ===
=== W2 series: Intersections ===
The MUTCD's W2 series of signs is for warning signs relating to junctions. As not all situations are covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.
The MUTCD's W2 series of signs is for warning signs relating to intersections. As not all situations are covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.


<gallery widths="80" heights="80" class="center" caption="Junctions">
<gallery widths="80" heights="80" class="center" caption="Intersections">
File:MUTCD W2-1.svg|Crossroad junction
File:MUTCD W2-1.svg|Crossroads
File:MUTCD W2-2L.svg|Side road junction
File:MUTCD W2-2L.svg|Side road
File:MUTCD W2-3L.svg|Slanted side road junction
File:MUTCD W2-3L.svg|Side Road at an angle
File:MUTCD W2-4.svg|T junction
File:MUTCD W2-4.svg|T-intersection
File:MUTCD W2-5.svg|Y junction
File:MUTCD W2-5.svg|Y-intersection
File:MUTCD W2-6.svg|Roundabout
File:MUTCD W2-6.svg|Roundabout
File:MUTCD W2-7L.svg|Offset side roads
File:MUTCD W2-7L.svg|Offset side roads
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File:MUTCD W3-1.svg|Stop sign ahead
File:MUTCD W3-1.svg|Stop sign ahead
File:MUTCD W3-2.svg|Yield sign ahead
File:MUTCD W3-2.svg|Yield sign ahead
File:MUTCD W3-5.svg|Speed limit ahead
File:MUTCD W3-3.svg|Traffic lights Ahead
File:MUTCD W3-3.svg|Traffic lights Ahead
File:MUTCD W3-4.svg|Be prepared to stop
File:MUTCD W3-4.svg|Be prepared to stop
File:MUTCD W3-5.svg|Speed limit ahead
File:MUTCD W3-5A.svg|Speed zone ahead
File:MUTCD W3-5A.svg|Speed zone ahead
File:MUTCD W3-6.svg|Draw bridge ahead
File:MUTCD W3-6.svg|Draw bridge ahead
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<gallery caption="Lanes and Merges" widths="80px" heights="80px" class="center">
<gallery caption="Lanes and Merges" widths="80px" heights="80px" class="center">
File:MUTCD W4-1R.svg|Merge ahead
File:MUTCD W4-1R.svg|Merge
File:MUTCD W4-2R.svg|Right lane ends
File:MUTCD W4-2R.svg|Lane ends
File:Roadsign lane drop ahead.svg|Lane drop ahead
File:MUTCD W4-3L.svg|Added left lane
File:MUTCD W4-3L.svg|Added left lane
File:MUTCD W4-3R.svg|Added right lane
File:MUTCD W4-3R.svg|Added right lane
File:MUTCD W4-4P.svg|Cross traffic does not stop
File:MUTCD W4-4P.svg|Cross traffic does not stop
File:MUTCD W4-5R.svg|Merge on slip lane
File:MUTCD W4-5R.svg|Merge (entering roadway)
File:MUTCD W4-6L.svg|Added left lane on slip lane
File:MUTCD W4-6L.svg|Added left lane (entering roadway)
File:MUTCD W4-6R.svg|Added right lane on slip lane
File:MUTCD W4-6R.svg|Added right lane (entering roadway)
</gallery>
</gallery>


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File:MUTCD W8-4.svg|Soft shoulder
File:MUTCD W8-4.svg|Soft shoulder
File:MUTCD W8-5.svg|Slippery ahead
File:MUTCD W8-5.svg|Slippery ahead
File:MUTCD W8-6.svg|Truck crossing
File:MUTCD W8-7.svg|Loose gravel
File:MUTCD W8-7.svg|Loose gravel
File:MUTCD W8-8.svg|Rough road
File:MUTCD W8-8.svg|Rough road
File:MUTCD W8-9.svg|Low shoulder
File:MUTCD W8-10.svg|Bicycle slippery ahead
File:MUTCD W8-10.svg|Bicycle slippery ahead
File:MUTCD W8-11.svg|Uneven lanes
File:MUTCD W8-11.svg|Uneven lanes
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File:MUTCD_W8-13.svg|Bridge ices before road
File:MUTCD_W8-13.svg|Bridge ices before road
File:MUTCD W8-14.svg|Fallen rocks
File:MUTCD W8-14.svg|Fallen rocks
File:MUTCD W8-15.svg|Grooved pavement
File:MUTCD W8-15P.svg|Motorcycle
File:MUTCD W8-16.svg|Metal bridge deck
File:MUTCD W8-16.svg|Metal bridge deck
File:MUTCD W8-18.svg|Road may flood
File:MUTCD W8-18.svg|Road may flood
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<gallery caption="Lane Transitions" widths="80px" heights="80px" class="center">
<gallery caption="Lane Transitions" widths="80px" heights="80px" class="center">
File:MUTCD W9-1.svg|Lane ends
File:MUTCD W9-1.svg|Lane ends
File:MUTCD W9-2.svg|Lane ends merge...
File:MUTCD W9-2L.svg|Lane ends merge left
File:MUTCD W9-2R.svg|Lane ends merge right
File:MUTCD CW9-3.svg|Center lane closed ahead
File:MUTCD CW9-3.svg|Center lane closed ahead
</gallery>
</gallery>


=== W10 series: Crossings ===
=== W10 series: Railroad crossings ===
The MUTCD's W10 series of signs is for warning signs relating to crossings. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.
The MUTCD's W10 series of signs is for warning signs relating to railroad crossings. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.
<gallery widths="80" heights="80" class="center" caption="Grade crossings">
<gallery widths="80" heights="80" class="center" caption="Railroad crossings">
File:MUTCD W10-1.svg|Crossing ahead
File:MUTCD W10-1.svg|Railroad crossing ahead
File:MUTCD W10-2R.svg|Crossing on junction ahead
File:MUTCD W10-2R.svg|Crossing on junction ahead
File:MUTCD W10-12.svg|Skewed crossing ahead
File:MUTCD W10-5.svg|Low ground clearance
File:MUTCD W10-5.svg|Low ground clearance
File:MUTCD W10-8.svg|Trains may exceed 80&nbsp;mph
File:MUTCD W10-8.svg|Trains may exceed 80&nbsp;mph
File:MUTCD W10-9.svg|No train horn warning
File:MUTCD W10-9.svg|No train horn warning
File:MUTCD W10-11.svg|Storage space
File:MUTCD W10-12.svg|Skewed crossing ahead
</gallery>
</gallery>


=== W11 series: Advance warnings ===
=== W11 series: Vehicular and non-vehicular ===
The MUTCD's W11 series of signs is for warning signs relating to advance warnings. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. The MUTCD allows use of a fluorescent yellow-green background color for signs relating to non-motorized vehicles crossing the road.<ref>{{cite web|title=2009 Edition Part 2 Figure 2C-11. Non-Vehicular Warning Signs|url=http://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/htm/2009/part2/fig2c_11_longdesc.htm|work=Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices|publisher=United States Department of Transportation|access-date=June 6, 2012}}</ref>
The MUTCD's W11 series of signs is for warning signs relating to vehicular and non-vehicular users crossing the road. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. The MUTCD allows use of a fluorescent yellow-green background color for signs relating to non-motorized vehicles crossing the road.<ref>{{cite web|title=2009 Edition Part 2 Figure 2C-11. Non-Vehicular Warning Signs|url=http://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/htm/2009/part2/fig2c_11_longdesc.htm|work=Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices|publisher=United States Department of Transportation|access-date=June 6, 2012}}</ref>


<gallery widths="80" heights="80" class="center" caption="Advanced warnings">
<gallery widths="80" heights="80" class="center" caption="Vehicular and non-vehicular">
File:MUTCD W11-1.svg|Bicycle
File:MUTCD W11-1.svg|Bicycle
File:MUTCD W11-2.svg|Pedestrians
File:MUTCD W11-2.svg|Pedestrians
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File:MUTCD W11-4.svg|Cattle
File:MUTCD W11-4.svg|Cattle
File:MUTCD W11-5.svg|Farm vehicles
File:MUTCD W11-5.svg|Farm vehicles
File:MUTCD W11-5a.svg|Farm vehicles (alternate)
File:MUTCD W11-6.svg|Snowmobile
File:MUTCD W11-6.svg|Snowmobile
File:MUTCD W11-7.svg|Equestrian
File:MUTCD W11-7.svg|Equestrian
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File:MUTCD W11-16.svg|Bear
File:MUTCD W11-16.svg|Bear
File:MUTCD W11-17.svg|Sheep
File:MUTCD W11-17.svg|Sheep
File:MUTCD W11-18.svg|Ram
File:MUTCD W11-18.svg|Bighorn sheep
File:MUTCD W11-19.svg|Donkey
File:MUTCD W11-19.svg|Donkey
File:MUTCD W11-20.svg|Elk
File:MUTCD W11-20.svg|Elk
File:MUTCD W11-21.svg|Moose
File:MUTCD W11-21.svg|Moose
File:MUTCD W11-22.svg|Wild horse
File:MUTCD W11-22.svg|Horse
</gallery>
</gallery>


=== W12 series: Obstacles ===
=== W12 series: Low Clearances===
The MUTCD's W12 series of signs is for warning signs relating to obstacles. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. Metric low bridge signs in meters are authorized but extremely rare, usually seen near the borders with Canada and Mexico, both of which use the [[metric system]].<ref name="us-metric signs" /> Many states, however, disallow the use of metric signs on state-maintained roads due to system restrictions, increasing the rarity of such signs.
The MUTCD's W12 series of signs is for warning signs relating to low clearances. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. Metric low bridge signs in meters are authorized but extremely rare, usually seen near the borders with Canada and Mexico, both of which use the [[metric system]].<ref name="us-metric signs" /> Many states, however, disallow the use of metric signs on state-maintained roads due to system restrictions, increasing the rarity of such signs.


<gallery widths="80" heights="80" class="center" caption="Obstacles">
<gallery widths="80" heights="80" class="center" caption="Low clearances">
File:MUTCD W12-1.svg|Double arrow obstacle
File:MUTCD W12-1.svg|Pass either side
File:MUTCD W12-2.svg|Low bridge obstacle
File:MUTCD W12-2.svg|Low clearance
File:MUTCD W12-2 METRIC.svg|Low bridge obstacle metric
File:MUTCD W12-2 METRIC.svg|Metric low clearance
File:MUTCD W12-2P.svg|Sign displays height of bridge
File:MUTCD W12-2P.svg|Low clearance height
</gallery>
</gallery>


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<gallery caption="Advisory Speeds" widths="80px" heights="80px" class="center">
<gallery caption="Advisory Speeds" widths="80px" heights="80px" class="center">
File:MUTCD W13-1.svg|Speed advisory
File:MUTCD W13-1.svg|Advisory speed
File:MUTCD W13-1 METRIC.svg|Speed advisory metric
File:MUTCD W13-1 METRIC.svg|Metric advisory speed
File:MUTCD W13-2.svg|Exit speed advisory
File:MUTCD W13-2.svg|Advisory exit speed
File:MUTCD W13-3.svg|Ramp speed advisory
File:MUTCD W13-3.svg|Advisory ramp speed
</gallery>
</gallery>


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The MUTCD's W14 series of signs is for warning signs relating to dead-end streets and no-passing zones. As all situations are not covered, several states and local governments have additional signs for other types of situations not covered by the MUTCD.
The MUTCD's W14 series of signs is for warning signs relating to dead-end streets and no-passing zones. As all situations are not covered, several states and local governments have additional signs for other types of situations not covered by the MUTCD.
<gallery caption="Dead End and Limited Access Streets" widths="80" heights="80" class="center">
<gallery caption="Dead End and Limited Access Streets" widths="80" heights="80" class="center">
File:MUTCD W14-2.svg|No Outlet
File:MUTCD W14-1.svg|Dead End
File:MUTCD W14-1.svg|Dead End
File:MUTCD W14-2.svg|No Outlet
File:MUTCD W14-3.svg|No Passing Zone
File:MUTCD W14-3.svg|No Passing Zone
</gallery>
</gallery>
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<gallery caption="Supplemental Plaques" widths="80px" heights="80px" class="center">
<gallery caption="Supplemental Plaques" widths="80px" heights="80px" class="center">
File:MUTCD W16-1P.svg|Share the road
File:MUTCD W16-2P.svg|XX feet
File:MUTCD W16-2P.svg|XX feet
File:MUTCD W16-2aP.svg|XX feet
File:MUTCD W16-2aP.svg|XX feet
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File:MUTCD W16-10aP.svg|Photo enforced
File:MUTCD W16-10aP.svg|Photo enforced
File:MUTCD W16-11P.svg|HOV
File:MUTCD W16-11P.svg|HOV
File:MUTCD W16-17P.svg|Roundabout junction plaque
File:MUTCD W16-12P.svg|Traffic circle plaque
File:MUTCD W16-13P.svg|When flashing
File:MUTCD W16-13P.svg|When flashing
File:MUTCD W16-15P.svg|New
File:MUTCD W16-15P.svg|New
File:MUTCD W16-17P.svg|Roundabout plaque
File:MUTCD W16-18P.svg|Notice
File:MUTCD W16-18P.svg|Notice
</gallery>
</gallery>
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</gallery>
</gallery>


=== W19 series: End of controlled access highway ===
=== W19 series: Freeway and expressway ends ===
The MUTCD's W19 series of signs is for warning signs relating to the end of a controlled access highway. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.
The MUTCD's W19 series of signs is for warning signs relating to the end of a freeway or expressway. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.


<gallery caption="End of Controlled Access" widths="80px" heights="80px" class="center">
<gallery caption="Freeway and expressway ends" widths="80px" heights="80px" class="center">
File:MUTCD_W19-1.svg|Freeway Ends
File:MUTCD_W19-1.svg|Freeway Ends ahead
File:MUTCD_W19-2.svg|Expressway Ends
File:MUTCD_W19-2.svg|Expressway Ends ahead
File:MUTCD_W19-3.svg|Freeway Ends
File:MUTCD_W19-3.svg|Freeway Ends
File:MUTCD_W19-4.svg|Expressway Ends
File:MUTCD_W19-4.svg|Expressway Ends
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The MUTCD's W20 series of signs is for warning signs relating to work zones. These signs are typically orange background ones used for temporary situations. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.
The MUTCD's W20 series of signs is for warning signs relating to work zones. These signs are typically orange background ones used for temporary situations. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.
<gallery caption="Work Zone Signs" widths="80px" heights="80px" class="center">
<gallery caption="Work Zone Signs" widths="80px" heights="80px" class="center">
File:MUTCD G20-1.svg|Road Work Next 5 Miles
File:MUTCD CW20-1.svg|Road work 1000 feet ahead
File:MUTCD G20-2.svg|End road work
File:MUTCD G20-5aP.svg|Work Zone Speed limit
File:MUTCD CW20-1.svg|Road work ahead
File:Road Closed Ahead sign.svg|Road Closed Ahead
File:Road Closed Ahead sign.svg|Road Closed Ahead
File:MUTCD W20-3 (temporary).svg|Road is closed 1000 ft. ahead
File:MUTCD W20-3 (temporary).svg|Road is closed 1000 ft. ahead
File:MUTCD M4-9R.svg|Detour
File:MUTCD M4-8a.svg|End Detour
File:MUTCD M4-8b.svg|End(If a road work blocked road)
File:MUTCD CW20-7.svg|Flagger
File:MUTCD CW20-7.svg|Flagger
</gallery>
</gallery>
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The MUTCD's W21 series of signs is for warning signs relating to road work. They typically have orange backgrounds and are used for temporary situations. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD
The MUTCD's W21 series of signs is for warning signs relating to road work. They typically have orange backgrounds and are used for temporary situations. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD
<gallery widths="80" heights="80" class="center" caption="Road Work Signs">
<gallery widths="80" heights="80" class="center" caption="Road Work Signs">
File:MUTCD CW20-4.svg|One lane road ahead
File:MUTCD CW3-4.svg|Be prepared to stop
File:MUTCD CW21-1.svg|Men working
File:MUTCD CW21-1.svg|Men working
File:MUTCD CW21-2.svg|Fresh oil
File:MUTCD CW21-2.svg|Fresh oil
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The MUTCD's W24 series of signs is for warning signs relating to lane shifts, where traffic is diverted slightly toward the left or right of the roadway, but the route is otherwise unchanged. These signs typically have orange background and are used for temporary situations. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.
The MUTCD's W24 series of signs is for warning signs relating to lane shifts, where traffic is diverted slightly toward the left or right of the roadway, but the route is otherwise unchanged. These signs typically have orange background and are used for temporary situations. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.
<gallery caption="Double Reverse Curve Signs" widths="80px" heights="80px" class="center">
<gallery caption="Double Reverse Curve Signs" widths="80px" heights="80px" class="center">
File:MUTCD CW24-1R.svg|Double reverse curve
File:MUTCD CW24-1R.svg|Double reverse curve (1 lane)
File:MUTCD CW24-1aR.svg|Double reverse curve
File:MUTCD CW24-1aR.svg|Double reverse curve (2 lanes)
File:MUTCD CW24-1bL.svg|Double reverse curve
File:MUTCD CW24-1bL.svg|Double reverse curve (3 lanes)
File:MUTCD CW24-1cP.svg|All lanes
File:MUTCD CW24-1cP.svg|All lanes
</gallery>
</gallery>
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The MUTCD's W25 series of signs is for signs warning that oncoming traffic has an extended green signal at a traffic light. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.
The MUTCD's W25 series of signs is for signs warning that oncoming traffic has an extended green signal at a traffic light. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.
<gallery caption="Extended Green Signs" widths="80px" heights="80px" class="center">
<gallery caption="Extended Green Signs" widths="80px" heights="80px" class="center">
File:MUTCD W25-1.svg|Extended green
File:MUTCD W25-1.svg|Oncoming traffic has extended green
File:MUTCD W25-2.svg|Possible extended Green
File:MUTCD W25-2.svg|Oncoming traffic may have extended green
</gallery>
</gallery>



Revision as of 19:44, 21 July 2022

Map showing state adoption of the 2009 edition of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices:
  Adopted national MUTCD
  Adopted national MUTCD with state supplement
  Adopted state-specific MUTCD

In the United States, road signs are, for the most part, standardized by federal regulations, most notably in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) and its companion volume the Standard Highway Signs (SHS).

There are no plans for adopting the Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals standards. The 1971 MUTCD adopted several Vienna Convention-inspired symbol signs with the intent to transition to symbols in lieu of words as "rapidly as possible",[1][2][3] but U.S. drivers were baffled by symbol signs.[4][5] The language about "rapidly" transitioning to symbols quietly disappeared in the 1978 MUTCD.[6] The result was to effectively freeze several measures intended to be temporary until U.S. drivers could learn the relevant symbols' meanings. For example, the "Do Not Enter" word message is not found on the Vienna Convention's equivalent sign. Two symbol signs were eliminated, respectively, in the 2000 and 2003 MUTCDs (thereby requiring use of the previous word message signs): Pavement Ends and Narrow Bridge.[7]

Eighteen states use the manual without alterations; 22 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico have adopted it in conjunction with a supplemental volume; and ten states have a state version in substantial conformance to the MUTCD.[8] There are localized versions used in large cities such as New York City which use a naming system compatible with the MUTCD and/or state supplement. The MUTCD and SHS establish seven categories of signs for road and highway use, as follows[9] (all signs from national MUTCD, unless noted):

Regulatory signs

Regulatory signs give instructions to motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists. Signs including Stop, Yield, No Turns, No Trucks, No Parking, No Stopping, Minimum Speed, Right Turn Only, Do Not Enter, Weight Limit, and Speed Limit are considered regulatory signs. Some have special shapes, such as the octagon for the Stop sign and the crossbuck for railroad crossings. Some signs can be localized, such as No Parking, and some are found only in state and local jurisdictions, as they are based on state or local laws, such as New York City's "Don't Block the Box" signs. These signs are in the R series of signs in the MUTCD and typically in the R series in most state supplements or state MUTCDs.

R1 series: Stop and yield

The MUTCD's R1 series is for Stop and Yield. As not all situations are covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. The 4-WAY and 3-WAY plaques (R1-3) were deprecated in the 2009 Edition of the MUTCD in favor of the ALL WAY plaque (R1-3P).

R2 series: Speed limit

The MUTCD's R2 series is for speed limit signs. Some state supplements and state MUTCDs place various speed limit signs in other series. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. Speed limits in the United States are always in miles per hour. Metric speed limit signs in kilometers per hour are authorized but extremely rare, usually seen near the borders with Canada and Mexico, both of which use the metric system.[10] Many states, however, disallow the use of metric signs on state-maintained roads due to MUTCD restrictions,[11] increasing the rarity of such signs.

R3 series: Lane usage and turns

The MUTCD's R3 series of signs is for lane usage and turn signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

R4 series: Regulation of movement

The MUTCD's R4 series of signs is for the regulation of movement signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

R5 series: Exclusionary

The MUTCD's R5 series of signs is for exclusionary signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. The most common of these signs is the do not enter sign.

R6 series: One way and divided highway

The MUTCD's R6 series of signs is for one way and divided highway signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. The most common of these signs is the One Way sign.

R7 series: Parking

The MUTCD allows for three types of parking signs: permissive, No Parking, and No Standing. However, in most states, there is an additional more restrictive one, No Stopping. These signs are found in the R7 series of signs in the MUTCD. As all situations are not covered, several states and local governments have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. Permissive parking signs allow for parking for either an unlimited or varied amount of time. They are often used in conjunction with parking meters and parking permits. They are specified by the MUTCD to be green on white. Local variations occur with additional information and slightly different designs. No Parking signs indicate that loading or unloading while temporarily stopped is permitted, but the driver must not leave the vicinity of the vehicle.[12] Some No Parking signs display time restrictions, while others are permanent restrictions. There are also temporary versions of the signs, often of similar design to the permanent ones. These signs are specified by the MUTCD to be red on white, although local variations occur. No Standing signs indicate that stopping temporarily to load or unload passengers is allowed, but vehicles cannot be stopped at the location for longer periods of time, even if the driver remains with the vehicle.[12] As with no parking signs, some restrictions displayed on the signs are permanent and some are time based.

R8 series: Parking and emergency restrictions

The MUTCD's R8 series of signs is for parking restriction and emergency restriction signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

R9 series: Bicycles and pedestrians

The MUTCD's R9 series of signs is for bicycle and pedestrian signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

R10 series: Traffic signal

The MUTCD's R10 series of signs is for traffic signal related signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

R11 series: Road closed

The MUTCD's R11 series of signs is for road closure-related signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

R12 series: Weight limits

The MUTCD's R12 series of signs is for weight limit-related signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

R13 series: Weigh stations

The MUTCD's R13 series of signs is for weigh station related signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

R14 series: Truck routes

The MUTCD's R14 series of signs is for truck route-related signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

R15 series: Rail and light rail

The MUTCD's R15 series of signs is for rail- and light rail-related signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

R16 series: Seat belts and headlight use

The MUTCD's R16 series of signs is for seat belt and headlight use-related signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

Warning signs

Warning signs are found in the W series of the national MUTCD. They highlight existing conditions, such as a curve, school, dead end street, or traffic signal. They can also warn of possible danger such as bumps, bicycles, low flying aircraft, or emergency vehicles. They are either yellow or fluorescent yellow in color and, with a few exceptions, are usually diamond-shaped and sometimes have square or rectangular smaller signs or plaques associated with them. Most W series signs can also be found with orange backgrounds for temporary use in situations such as construction zones. Some of the temporary-use signs are for use only in temporary situations.

W1 series: Turns and curves

The MUTCD's W1 series of signs is for warning signs relating to turns and curves. As not all situations are covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

W2 series: Intersections

The MUTCD's W2 series of signs is for warning signs relating to intersections. As not all situations are covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

W3 series: Advance traffic control

The MUTCD's W3 series of signs is for warning signs relating to advance traffic controls. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. The MUTCD provides options for graphic and text signs.

W4 series: Lanes and merges

The MUTCD's W4 series of signs is for warning signs relating to lane merges and added lanes, as well as lane endings. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

W5 series: Road width restrictions

The MUTCD's W5 series of signs is for warning signs relating to road width restrictions. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. The MUTCD provides options for graphic and text signs.

W6 series: Divided highway

The MUTCD's W6 series of signs is for warning signs relating to divided highways. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. The MUTCD provides options for graphic and text signs.

W7 series: Hills

The MUTCD's W7 series of signs is for warning signs relating to hills. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

W8 series: Pavement and roadway conditions

The MUTCD's W8 series of signs is for warning signs relating to pavement and roadway conditions. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

W9 series: Lane transitions

The MUTCD's W9 series of signs is for warning signs relating to lane transitions. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

W10 series: Railroad crossings

The MUTCD's W10 series of signs is for warning signs relating to railroad crossings. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

W11 series: Vehicular and non-vehicular

The MUTCD's W11 series of signs is for warning signs relating to vehicular and non-vehicular users crossing the road. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. The MUTCD allows use of a fluorescent yellow-green background color for signs relating to non-motorized vehicles crossing the road.[13]

W12 series: Low Clearances

The MUTCD's W12 series of signs is for warning signs relating to low clearances. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. Metric low bridge signs in meters are authorized but extremely rare, usually seen near the borders with Canada and Mexico, both of which use the metric system.[10] Many states, however, disallow the use of metric signs on state-maintained roads due to system restrictions, increasing the rarity of such signs.

W13 series: Advisory speeds

The MUTCD's W13 series of signs is for warning signs relating to advisory speeds. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. Speed limits in the United States are always in miles per hour. Metric advisory speed signs in kilometers per hour are authorized but extremely rare, usually seen near the borders with Canada and Mexico, both of which use the metric system.[10] Many states, however, disallow the use of metric signs on state-maintained roads due to system restrictions, increasing the rarity of such signs.

W14 series: Dead end streets and no passing zones

The MUTCD's W14 series of signs is for warning signs relating to dead-end streets and no-passing zones. As all situations are not covered, several states and local governments have additional signs for other types of situations not covered by the MUTCD.

W15 series: Playgrounds

The MUTCD's W15 series of signs is for warning signs relating to playgrounds. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

W16 series: Supplemental plaques

The MUTCD's W16 series of signs is for supplemental plaques for warning signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

W17 series: Speed humps

The MUTCD's W17 series of signs is for warnings relating to speed humps. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

W18 series: No traffic signs

The MUTCD's W18 series of signs is for warnings relating to no further traffic signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

W19 series: Freeway and expressway ends

The MUTCD's W19 series of signs is for warning signs relating to the end of a freeway or expressway. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

W20 series: Work zones

The MUTCD's W20 series of signs is for warning signs relating to work zones. These signs are typically orange background ones used for temporary situations. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

W21 series: Road work

The MUTCD's W21 series of signs is for warning signs relating to road work. They typically have orange backgrounds and are used for temporary situations. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD

W22 series: Blasting zones

The MUTCD's W22 series of signs is for warning signs relating to blasting zones. They typically have orange backgrounds and are used for temporary situations. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

W23 series: Slow traffic

The MUTCD's W23 series of signs is for warning signs relating to slow traffic. They typically have orange backgrounds and are used for temporary situations. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

W24 series: Lane shifts

The MUTCD's W24 series of signs is for warning signs relating to lane shifts, where traffic is diverted slightly toward the left or right of the roadway, but the route is otherwise unchanged. These signs typically have orange background and are used for temporary situations. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

W25 series: Oncoming traffic has extended green

The MUTCD's W25 series of signs is for signs warning that oncoming traffic has an extended green signal at a traffic light. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

Guide signs

Guide signs include highway route markers (shields), which are reassurance markers, interchange signs, including advance guide and exit signs, and mile markers. Advance guide and exit signs usually feature control cities or other locations to help direct drivers toward their destinations. The position of the exit number plaque indicates right or left exit[15] (and should indicate center lane exit).

Interchange signs

Toll road signs

Chapter 2F of the MUTCD deals with signs for toll roads.

Motorist services

General information

School zone signs

The S series of signs is specially designated by the MUTCD for use around schools. Some states have additional school warning-related signs in the S series, the W series of warning signs, and/or the R series of regulatory signs of the state supplement or state MUTCD. As of 2009 the MUTCD requires school warning signs to have fluorescent yellow-green backgrounds.[16]

See also

Notes

  1. ^ a b c d The legend STATE LAW is optional. A fluorescent yellow-green color may be used instead of yellow for this sign.
  2. ^ A fluorescent yellow-green background color may be used for this sign.[14]

References

  1. ^ American Association of State Highway Officials; National Joint Committee on Traffic Control Devices (1971). "Section 2A-13, Symbols". Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration. p. 16. Retrieved July 21, 2020.
  2. ^ "Symbols to Replace Words on U.S. Traffic Signs". The New York Times. May 31, 1970. p. 58.
  3. ^ Lindsey, Robert (April 23, 1972). "Signs of Progress: Road Symbols Guiding Traffic". The New York Times. p. S22. Retrieved August 19, 2020.
  4. ^ Hazlett, Bill (March 23, 1972). "Some Confusing: Wordless Traffic Signs Popping Up". Los Angeles Times. p. E1. Available through ProQuest Historical Newspapers.
  5. ^ Conniff, James C.G. (March 30, 1975). "Danger: Signs ahead". The New York Times. p. 183. Retrieved August 19, 2020.
  6. ^ American Association of State Highway Officials; National Joint Committee on Traffic Control Devices (1978). "Section 2A-13, Symbols". Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration. p. 2A-6.
  7. ^ American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials; National Joint Committee on Traffic Control Devices (2003). "Introduction". Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration. Retrieved August 26, 2020.
  8. ^ "MUTCDs & Traffic Control Devices Information by State". Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. Federal Highway Administration. July 14, 2020. Retrieved January 11, 2021.
  9. ^ Staff. "The Shape—and Color—Give Us a Sign". Federal Highway Administration. Archived from the original on April 1, 2009. Retrieved April 5, 2009.
  10. ^ a b c Metric signs on roads in the U.S.
  11. ^ "23 CFR Part 655 National Standards for Traffic Control Devices; the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways; Revision; Final Rule" (PDF). Retrieved April 2, 2019.
  12. ^ a b Staff (October 2011). "Chapter 7: Parallel Parking". Driver's Manual and Study Guide. New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. Retrieved March 16, 2012.
  13. ^ "2009 Edition Part 2 Figure 2C-11. Non-Vehicular Warning Signs". Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. United States Department of Transportation. Retrieved June 6, 2012.
  14. ^ "2009 Edition Part 2 Figure 2C-11. Non-Vehicular Warning Signs". Manual On Uniform Traffic Control Devices. United States Department of Transportation. Retrieved June 6, 2012.
  15. ^ "MUTCD, Section 2E.28 - Interchange Exit Numbering" (PDF).
  16. ^ "2009 Edition Chapter 7B. School Signs". Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. The United States Department of Transportation. Retrieved June 6, 2012.


External links