Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles Permit Practice Test

What should a driver do when they see a yellow traffic sign?

1. Speed up to get through the warning area quickly

2. Prepare for what is ahead and proceed with caution

3. Ignore it if familiar with the area

4. Maintain the same speed as before

The correct answer is: Prepare for what is ahead and proceed with caution

When a driver sees a yellow traffic sign, it indicates a warning about upcoming conditions or changes in the road ahead. These signs are meant to alert drivers to potential hazards, such as curves, intersections, pedestrian crossings, or other situations that may require increased awareness or caution. Choosing to prepare for what lies ahead and proceeding with caution is essential for maintaining safety on the road. This approach gives drivers the opportunity to adjust their speed if necessary, remain vigilant for unexpected obstacles, and respond appropriately to changing conditions. Yellow traffic signs are not meant to be ignored or dismissed, even if a driver thinks they are familiar with the area. Conditions can change, and what may have been familiar at one time can pose new challenges, making caution necessary. Additionally, maintaining the same speed or speeding up defeats the purpose of the warning, as it can increase the risk of accidents in areas that require greater attentiveness. Adapting to the information presented by yellow signs is crucial for safe driving.