California DMV Permit Test (Class C)Traffic Signs and SignalsHard
You are driving on a road with multiple lanes in your direction. You see a white rectangular sign with the words 'THRU TRAFFIC MUST EXIT' and an arrow pointing diagonally down and to the right. What action should you take?
- APrepare to exit the main roadway if you intend to continue straight.
- BContinue straight, as this sign applies to commercial vehicles only.
- CSlow down and prepare for a merge from the right.
- DChange lanes to the left to avoid merging traffic.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Prepare to exit the main roadway if you intend to continue straight.
This sign is a regulatory guide sign indicating that the through lanes are about to become exit-only. If you want to continue on the main route, you must prepare to exit and re-enter, or change lanes if possible before the exit-only lane begins.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. The sign does not specify commercial vehicles; it applies to all through traffic.
- C. While slowing may be necessary, the primary action is to prepare for the exit, not a merge from the right.
- D. Changing lanes to the left might be an option if available, but the core message is about the through lane becoming an exit.
Thru Traffic Must Exit Sign
A white rectangular regulatory sign indicating that the current through lane will become an exit lane, requiring drivers to exit or change lanes to continue on the main route.
- Appears on multi-lane highways or freeways.
- Warns drivers that their current lane will lead to an exit.
- Requires drivers desiring to continue straight to change lanes or follow the exit and re-entry path.
Memory trick: White signs with words tell you the law, especially about where to go.