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One Lane Road: What It Means & What To Do

One Lane Road (W20-3) - diamond orange with black construction sign: The road is reduced to one lane ahead
MUTCD CodeW20-3
CategoryConstruction Signs
ShapeDiamond
ColorOrange with black

What Does the One Lane Road Mean?

The road is reduced to one lane ahead. Be prepared to take turns with oncoming traffic.

About This Sign

In construction zones, one lane may be closed, requiring traffic from both directions to share a single lane.

Where you will see it

You see this sign in a work zone where one lane is closed, so traffic from both directions must share a single lane. It tells you to expect to take turns.

What to do

  • Slow down and look ahead for oncoming vehicles.
  • Be prepared to take turns with oncoming traffic.
  • Follow any signs that direct the turns.

A common mistake

Speeding up to get through before oncoming vehicles arrive. Both directions share one lane, so rushing in can cause a head-on conflict. Slow down and wait your turn.

What to remember for the test

Remember that the road is reduced to one lane and both directions share it. The key action is to be ready to take turns with oncoming traffic.

Other Construction Signs

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the One Lane Road mean?

The road is reduced to one lane ahead. Be prepared to take turns with oncoming traffic.

What shape and color is the One Lane Road?

The One Lane Road uses the Diamond shape and Orange with black coloring.

Practice Road Sign Questions

Test your knowledge of road signs with free DMV practice tests.