Warning Road Sign (W6-1)
Divided Highway Begins Sign Meaning & Driving Rules
The Divided Highway Begins sign (MUTCD W6-1) warns motorists that the two-way roadway ahead is splitting into two separate one-way roadways separated by a physical median island or barrier.
Required Driver Action & Right-of-Way Protocol
Keep to the right of the upcoming median barrier. Maintain your lane and watch for opposing traffic in their separate roadway.
Detailed Overview & Purpose
When transitioning from an undivided two-way road onto a divided highway, traffic flows are physically separated. The sign features a yellow diamond with a graphic of two opposing arrows curving around a solid median barrier at the top.
Drivers must stay to the right of the median barrier. Entering to the left of the barrier puts you directly into opposing traffic lanes.
Key Standard & Origin: The symbol places the median obstruction at the top of the sign to represent the road dividing ahead.
Where You'll Find This Sign
Installed 200 to 750 feet before the start of a divided highway median or physical concrete divider.
Common Driver Mistakes to Avoid
Drifting to the left of the median island when turning onto a newly divided roadway, entering oncoming lanes.
How This Sign Appears on the DMV Knowledge & Road Test
Frequently paired with 'Divided Highway Ends' in DMV symbol identification questions.
Legal Penalties and Moving Violations
Driving on the wrong side of a divided highway carries immediate felony Wrong Way charges.
Sign Variations & Related Types
Divided Highway Ends (W6-2)
Features the median barrier at the bottom of the sign, warning of the end of the divided section.
When you encounter the official Divided Highway Begins (W6-1) on a roadway, what is your legal duty?
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