ThinkabaraWrong Way sign
Regulatory signs · MUTCD R5-1a
What it means
You are driving against traffic. Turn around safely right away.
How to recognize it
Red horizontal rectangle with white letters.
What drivers do
If you see this sign facing you, you have entered a one-way road or ramp in the wrong direction. Pull over safely and turn around.
For kids walking and biking
Bikes must also follow one-way signs.
Check yourself
You see a WRONG WAY sign facing you on a ramp. What should you do?
Learning summary, not legal advice. Traffic laws vary by state — check your state driver's handbook. Drawing: our own illustration of the standard MUTCD design.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Wrong Way sign mean?
You are driving against traffic. Turn around safely right away.
What should a driver do at a Wrong Way sign?
If you see this sign facing you, you have entered a one-way road or ramp in the wrong direction. Pull over safely and turn around.
What does the Wrong Way sign look like?
Red horizontal rectangle with white letters. It is a regulatory sign (white, red or black). MUTCD code R5-1a.