MUTCD W12-1: Double Arrow Sign
The W12-1 sign is covered in Section 2C.23 of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, 11th Edition. Below are the provisions from that section that describe when the sign is used and how it is placed.
What it means and when it is used
- Option · Permitted (may)The Double Arrow (W12-1) sign (see Figure 2C-6 ) may be used to advise road users that traffic is permitted to pass on either side of an island, obstruction, or gore in the roadway. Traffic separated by this sign may either rejoin or change directions.
- Guidance · Recommended (should)If used on an island, the Double Arrow sign should be mounted near the approach end.
Placement and mounting
- Guidance · Recommended (should)If used in front of a pier or obstruction, the Double Arrow sign should be mounted on the face of, or just in front of, the pier or obstruction. Where stripe markings are used on the pier or obstruction, they should be discontinued to leave a 3-inch space around the outside of the Double Arrow sign.
Where to read the rest
- Full text: MUTCD Section 2C.23: Double Arrow Sign
- Minimum sign sizes by roadway type are in the size section for this chapter: Section 2C.03
- Mounting height, lateral offset and retroreflectivity for any sign: MUTCD sign placement guide
Source: Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, 11th Edition (Federal Highway Administration, December 2023, public domain). Excerpts are shortened and shown out of context; read the full section before specifying a sign. Your state may still be operating under the 2009 edition or a state supplement. Official manual: mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov.