Traffic Signal Ahead Sign
The traffic signal ahead sign is a diamond-shaped yellow warning sign with a symbol showing a traffic light (three circles arranged vertically — red, yellow, and green). This sign warns you that a traffic signal is ahead that may not be visible from a distance. You'll see this sign where a traffic signal might be unexpected or where it's hidden by a hill, curve, trees, or other obstruction until you're close. The sign gives you advance notice so you can prepare to stop. When you see this sign, start reducing your speed and be ready for the light to be red or to turn yellow as you approach. This is especially important on roads where you've been traveling at higher speeds without any stops — drivers can become lulled into a sense of continuous travel and may not react quickly enough to a traffic signal they didn't expect. The sign is also posted where a new traffic signal has recently been installed to alert regular drivers who aren't expecting it. Always approach the traffic signal prepared to stop, and remember that a yellow light means the light is about to turn red — it's not an instruction to speed up.
Rules & What to Do
Reduce speed when you see this sign. Be prepared to stop at the traffic signal ahead. Start slowing down early, especially if you've been traveling at higher speeds. Cover your brake as you approach the signal. Do not try to beat a yellow light.
Penalties
No penalty for the warning sign. Running a red light carries fines of $100-$500 depending on the state, 2-4 points on your driving record, and may trigger red light camera tickets. Running a red light that causes an accident results in significantly higher penalties.
For Commercial Drivers
The traffic signal ahead sign is especially important for CDL drivers because heavy vehicles need much more stopping distance. If you're driving at highway speed and suddenly encounter a red light, a loaded truck may not be able to stop in time. When you see this sign, begin reducing speed immediately and keep your right foot covering the brake. Remember the CDL stopping distance formula: at 55 mph, a loaded truck needs about 390 feet (more than a football field) to stop.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the traffic signal ahead sign mean?
The traffic signal ahead sign warns that there's a traffic light coming up that you may not be able to see yet. Start slowing down and be prepared to stop at a red light.
Why is there a traffic signal ahead sign?
This sign is posted where a traffic signal might surprise drivers — after a hill, around a curve, or on a road where signals are uncommon. It gives you advance warning so you can prepare to stop safely.