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DMV Permit · Warning Signs

What does a yellow diamond sign with a wavy arrow mean?

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

Slippery when wet — the road surface may be slick in wet conditions

  1. A Slippery when wet — the road surface may be slick in wet conditions
  2. B Speed bump
  3. C Side road
  4. D River ahead

Why this is the answer

A wavy or wiggly arrow (like a car skidding) on a yellow diamond is the 'slippery when wet' warning. It indicates a section of road where the surface becomes especially slick in rain or other wet conditions — typically because of pavement type, smoothing from heavy traffic wear, or grade. Reduce speed in wet weather where you see this sign, avoid sudden steering or braking, and increase following distance. Slippery-when-wet warnings often appear on bridges, in areas of frequent oil drippings (intersections, freight terminals), and on smooth asphalt where polishing has reduced surface texture. These are also areas where hydroplaning is more likely at speed.
Source: MUTCD Section 2C Slippery Surface Warning

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About this topic: Warning Signs

Yellow diamond signs warn of hazards: curves, intersections, animals, slippery surfaces, school zones. Slow down and look further ahead when you see them. This is one of 24 Road Signs questions on warning signs, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

New to this exam? Our DMV Permit exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

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