Sharp Turn Sign — Meaning

By DMV Master Editorial Team Updated April 28, 2026 Also: Right Sharp Turn, Left Sharp Turn

Category: Warning
Shape: Diamond
Colors: Yellow, Black
Text: (90° arrow)
MUTCD Code: W1-3

What does the Sharp Turn Sign mean?

The Sharp Turn sign is a yellow diamond showing a 90-degree right-angle arrow. It warns of an abrupt turn ahead — sharper than a typical curve — requiring significant speed reduction to navigate safely.

What to do when you see this sign

1
Reduce speed substantially — much more than for a regular curve
2
Heed any posted advisory speed (typically 15–25 mph)
3
Be prepared for sharp steering input
4
Watch for additional signs warning of intersections or hazards within the turn

Where you'll see it

Where roads bend at near-90-degree angles
In mountainous and rural areas
At T-intersections where the through road continues at an angle
On historic city streets with grid-imposed sharp turns

Test trap: don't get caught by this

Sharp Turn signs often have advisory speeds of 20 mph or below. Drivers traveling at the regular speed limit (often 45+ mph) must slow dramatically. Underestimating the speed reduction is a frequent cause of single-vehicle crashes.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a Sharp Turn and a regular Curve sign?

A Curve sign shows a gradual arc (gentle bend). A Sharp Turn sign shows a 90-degree right-angle arrow, indicating an abrupt turn requiring much greater speed reduction.

How much should I slow down for a Sharp Turn?

Heed the posted advisory speed if any. As a rule of thumb, reduce to half the road's normal speed limit unless a lower advisory is given.

Can large trucks navigate Sharp Turns?

Sharp Turn signs may be supplemented with truck advisory plates indicating reduced speeds for large vehicles, or "No Trucks" if the turn is too tight for trucks to navigate safely.