Ask a Trooper - Are yellow speed limit signs precautionary or mandatory?

Question: Is the speed limit that is posted on a yellow sign for curves and intersections mandatory or just precautionary? It is written in the driver’s education manual stating all yellow signs mean caution.

Answer: The driver’s education manual is correct. The yellow signs serve as a warning. Even though they are not regulatory they are intended to provide clear instructions to help you drive safely. So if the posted speed limit is 55 mph, and you see a yellow sign indicating 45 mph, I would recommend slowing to the indicated speed.

Minnesota signs, signals, and pavement markings conform to the national standards.

Sign color meanings:

Regulatory –

Red: Prohibits and commands

White: Regulates

Warning –

Yellow: Warns

Yellow-green: Warns and controls pedestrian and bicycle crossings and school areas

Orange: Warns and control in construction zones

Informational –

Green: Guides and informs

Blue: Describes services for motorists

Brown: Indicates historic, cultural, or recreational sites

If you have any questions concerning traffic-related laws in Minnesota, send your questions to Trooper Jesse Grabow, Minnesota State Patrol, 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes MN 56501-2205. Or reach me at jesse.grabow@state.mn.us.

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