Stop Ahead Sign
The stop ahead sign is a diamond-shaped yellow warning sign displaying a miniature stop sign symbol (a red octagon with "STOP" on it). It warns drivers that a stop sign is ahead that may not be visible until you're close to it. You'll see this sign on roads where the stop sign is hidden by a hill, curve, trees, buildings, or other obstructions. It's also posted where drivers may not expect a stop sign — such as on roads where there haven't been any stops for a long distance and drivers may be traveling at higher speeds. The advance warning gives you time to begin slowing down so you can make a safe, controlled stop. Without this warning, drivers might not see the stop sign until it's too late to stop safely, especially at higher speeds or in poor visibility conditions. When you see a stop ahead sign, start reducing your speed immediately and prepare to come to a complete stop at the upcoming stop sign. This sign is part of a family of advance warning signs that includes "SIGNAL AHEAD" and "YIELD AHEAD," all of which serve the same purpose of giving drivers time to prepare for traffic control ahead.
Rules & What to Do
Begin slowing down when you see this sign. Prepare to come to a complete stop at the stop sign ahead. Be alert for the stop sign, which may be hidden by terrain or obstructions. Do not wait until you see the actual stop sign to start braking.
Penalties
There is no penalty for the warning sign itself. However, running the stop sign ahead because you failed to prepare carries the same penalty as any stop sign violation: fines of $100-$300 and 2-3 points on your record.
For Commercial Drivers
The stop ahead sign is critical for CDL drivers due to extended stopping distances. When you see this sign, begin slowing immediately — a loaded truck at highway speed needs several hundred feet to stop. Downshift to a lower gear as you decelerate. If the stop sign is at the bottom of a hill, factor in the additional momentum from the downgrade. Plan to stop smoothly and completely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the stop ahead sign mean?
The stop ahead sign warns that there's a stop sign coming up that you may not be able to see yet. Start slowing down immediately so you can stop safely at the stop sign.
What does the yellow sign with a small stop sign on it mean?
A yellow diamond-shaped sign showing a miniature stop sign is the 'stop ahead' warning sign. It tells you there's a stop sign ahead that may be hidden by a hill, curve, or obstruction.