The Truth About Yellow Speed Signs on Minnesota Roads

It has been so long since I have taken my permit or driver’s test, and most of you can say the same. We all know the basic rules of driving on roads, but I swear the questions referring to specific signs can get so confusing!

I know I have thought this many times and you probably have to, but what do all road signs mean, and are they signs that show laws or recommendations?

On this episode of Ask a Trooper, a Minnesota resident asks the question we have all been wondering.

Question:

Are yellow speed signs in curves or busy locations enforceable? I've seen 60 mph white speed limit signs then a short distance later a yellow 50 mph sign. The yellow signs don't say "limit" on them, so I would think going 60 mph in a yellow 50 mph zone isn't illegal but not a good idea.

Sgt. Troy Christianson of the Minnesota State Patrol shares his detailed answer for us!

Answer:

The white signs are regulatory signs. Yellow signs are warning and advisory signs. You could see the yellow signs in areas such as curves, winding roads, etc. to help inform motorists about what is safe.

He then shares what the colors of signs indicate:

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 controls in construction zones

Informational:

• Green: Guides and informs
• Blue: Describes services for motorists
• Brown: Indicates historic, cultural, or recreational sites

All information is credit to "Ask a Trooper" by Sgt. Troy Christianson. If you have any questions concerning traffic-related laws or issues in Minnesota send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson – Minnesota State Patrol at 2900 48th Street NW, Rochester MN 55901-5848. (Or reach him at, Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us).