Traffic Signal Ahead
warning sign · diamond · yellow
A traffic light is ahead, often hidden by a curve or hill. Be ready to stop.
- Visual breakdown
- Yellow diamond with a red-yellow-green signal pictograph.
- Shape recognition
- Diamond with the three-dot signal symbol.
- Color recognition
- Yellow warning with the actual signal colors inside — a preview of what's coming.
- Memory trick
- It's the trailer for the movie: the real signal is just around the bend, so set your speed for a possible red.
- Real-world example
- Posted before a signal hidden beyond a hill crest at 55 mph — if the light's been green a while, expect it to be 'stale' and ready to change.
- Common mistakes
- Maintaining full speed and getting caught by a red just past a blind crest.
- Quick recall method
- Signal pictograph = light ahead; cover the brake.
