California DMV Permit Test (Class C)Traffic Signs and SignalsMedium

You are driving on a multi-lane highway and observe a series of small, raised reflective markers embedded in the pavement. These markers are red. What do these red pavement reflectors indicate?

  1. AThey indicate that you are driving in the wrong direction or entering a closed area.
  2. BThey mark the location of a fire hydrant.
  3. CThey separate traffic lanes moving in the same direction.
  4. DThey mark the left edge of the roadway on a divided highway.
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A. They indicate that you are driving in the wrong direction or entering a closed area.

Red pavement reflectors are placed on the back of the white markers and are only visible to drivers going the wrong way. They serve as a strong warning that you are traveling against the flow of traffic or entering a prohibited area.

Why the other options are wrong

  • B. Incorrect; blue reflectors indicate fire hydrant locations.
  • C. Incorrect; white reflectors separate same-direction traffic.
  • D. Incorrect; yellow reflectors mark the left edge of a divided highway.

Red Pavement Reflectors

Red pavement reflectors are embedded in the pavement to warn drivers that they are going the wrong way on a freeway ramp or entering a lane that is closed to them. They are a critical safety indicator for wrong-way driving.

  • Indicate wrong-way driving or no entry.
  • Visible only from the 'wrong' direction.
  • Require immediate corrective action (stop or turn around safely).

Memory trick: White for same, Yellow for opposite, Red for wrong.

More Traffic Signs and Signals questions