Warning Road Sign (W1-3)
Reverse Turn (Sharp S-Turn) Sign Meaning & Driving Rules
Warns of two consecutive sharp turns in opposite directions in rapid succession, with the first turn in the direction of the arrow.
Required Driver Action & Right-of-Way Protocol
Decelerate substantially before the first turn. Keep vehicle speed constant through both turns and do not accelerate until clearing the second turn.
Detailed Overview & Purpose
The Reverse Turn sign (W1-3) marks two consecutive sharp 90-degree turns connected by a very short tangent (less than 600 feet apart). Navigating this configuration requires steering rapidly from one lock to the opposite direction.
Because the straight section between turns is brief, drivers cannot safely regain normal road speed between the two maneuvers. Speed reduction must be maintained throughout both bends.
Keep both hands firmly at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions on the steering wheel to retain maximum steering control.
Key Standard & Origin: Reverse Turn signs indicate much tighter angles than Reverse Curve signs. If the arrow has hard angles rather than smooth bends, each turn has a recommended speed below 30 mph.
Where You'll Find This Sign
Mountain passes, railway overpass approaches, and older bypass alignments where two sharp turns occur in immediate sequence.
Common Driver Mistakes to Avoid
Accelerating during the brief straight section between the two turns, which forces the driver to enter the second sharp turn dangerously fast.
How This Sign Appears on the DMV Knowledge & Road Test
Distinguishes between a gradual reverse curve (W1-4) and a sharp reverse turn (W1-3).
Legal Penalties and Moving Violations
Crossing the double yellow dividing line in a reverse turn carries high moving violation fines and 2 points.
Sign Variations & Related Types
Reverse Turn Right-Left (W1-3R)
First sharp turn is to the right, followed immediately by a sharp left.
Reverse Turn Left-Right (W1-3L)
First sharp turn is to the left, followed immediately by a sharp right.
When you encounter the official Reverse Turn (Sharp S-Turn) (W1-3) on a roadway, what is your legal duty?
Prepare for Your State Permit Exam
Take full 2026 practice tests covering mandatory road signs, traffic laws, and state-specific driving rules.
