Work zone sign · MUTCD W20-5
Right Lane Closed Ahead
The right lane is closed ahead because of work. Traffic in that lane must merge into the open lane.
- Shape
- Orange diamond
- Color
- Orange background, black lane symbol and border
What to do
Check your mirrors and signal early if you are in the right lane. Merge safely into the open lane, take turns with other drivers when traffic is slow, and follow the arrow panels and cones.
Where you see it
Ahead of the lane closure, in a work zone on a multi-lane road.
Test trap
Merging too late or speeding up to pass others in the closing lane is unsafe. Remember the lane is closed for workers, so never drive in it.
Memory tip: Right lane closed: look left, signal, merge.
Practice question
This sign means:
- The right lane turns right only
- The right lane is for buses only
- Two lanes become three ahead
- The right lane is closed ahead
Answer: D. Traffic in the right lane must merge into the open lane.
Minnesota Driver's Manual (02/2019), p. 57