Warning sign · MUTCD W12-1
Double Arrow (Pass on Either Side)
An island, median or obstruction is directly ahead and traffic may go around it on either the left or the right side.
- Shape
- Diamond
- Color
- Yellow background, black arrows pointing down-left and down-right
What to do
Slow down and choose a side early based on your lane and where you want to go. Do not swerve at the last moment or straddle the obstruction. Watch for vehicles in the other lane choosing the opposite side.
Where you see it
On the nose of a median or island, or on a pole in the roadway, facing approaching drivers.
Test trap
The yellow Double Arrow allows either side; the white Keep Right sign orders one side. Do not confuse it with the Two-Way Traffic sign, whose arrows point straight up and down.
Memory tip: Arrows split left and right — pick a side, either is fine.
Practice question
A yellow diamond sign with arrows pointing down to the left and down to the right means:
- Road splits; choose one exit
- Traffic may pass on either side of the obstacle
- Detour in both directions
- Two-way traffic
Answer: B. You may go around the island or obstruction on either side.
MUTCD sign meanings (as taught in state driver handbooks)