BE PREPARED TO STOP Sign Requirements

1. When a BE PREPARED TO STOP Sign Is Used

Warns drivers that they may have to stop ahead, giving advance notice of a flagging station, queue, or signal that can require stopping.

• Ahead of flagging stations and one-lane control
• Ahead of temporary traffic signals and queues
• Paired with W20-7 Flagger in the warning sequence

2. How and Where It Applies

In the field, W3-4 Be Prepared To Stop is typically positioned at the advance warning area, ahead of the work. Common deployments include ahead of flagging stations and one-lane control; ahead of temporary traffic signals and queues; paired with W20-7 Flagger in the warning sequence. Always confirm its size, retroreflective sheeting, spacing, and placement against the CA MUTCD 2026 and the reviewing agency before finalizing the traffic control plan.

3. Placement and Application Notes

Position W3-4 advance warning area, ahead of the work.

• Place the sign where drivers have a clear, unobstructed view on approach.
• Mount at the standard height and setback from the edge of the traveled way.
• Do not mount with other signs on the same post unless space constraints require it.

4. Standard Sizes and Visibility Considerations

Typical minimum: 48" × 48" on conventional roads; 60" × 60" on expressways and freeways.

• Choose size based on roadway speed, sight distance, and mounting location.
• Maintain high retroreflectivity for maximum night and adverse-weather visibility.

5. California Notes

In California work zones the orange (temporary) version follows the Flagger sign or precedes a temporary signal, alerting drivers before they reach a stopping point.

6. Common Field or Planning Mistakes

• Sign not shown at the correct advance distance for the posted speed.
• Advance warning sign missing or out of sequence on the TCP.
• Wrong size specified for the roadway classification (conventional vs. expressway).
• Sign sheeting / retroreflectivity class not noted on the plan.