MUTCD W2-1: Intersection Warning Signs

The W2-1 sign is covered in Section 2C.41 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)
  A Cross Road (W2-1), Side Road (W2-2, W2-3, or W2-3a), T-Intersection (W2-4), or Y-Intersection (W2-5) sign (see Figure 2C-10 ) may be used in advance of an intersection to indicate the presence of an intersection and the possibility of turning or entering traffic.Figure 2C-9. Reduced Speed Limit Ahead and Speed Zone Signs W3-5 W3-5a W3-5b W3-5c Figure 2C-10. Intersection Warning Signs and Plaques W2-1 W2-2 W2-3…
• Option · Permitted (may)
  The Circular Intersection (W2-6) sign (see Figure 2C-10 ) may be installed in advance of a circular intersection (see Figures 2B-21 through 2B-23).

Placement and mounting

• Guidance · Recommended (should)
  If an approach to a circular intersection has a statutory or posted speed limit of 40 mph or higher, the Circular Intersection (W2-6) sign should be installed in advance of the circular intersection.
• Option · Permitted (may)
  An educational plaque (see Figure 2C-10 ) with a legend such as TRAFFIC CIRCLE (W16-12P) or ROUNDABOUT (W16-12aP) may be mounted below a Circular Intersection sign.
• Guidance · Recommended (should)
  If an Intersection Warning sign is used where the side roads are not opposite of each other, the Offset Side Roads (W2-7) sign (see Figure 2C-10 ) should be used instead of the Cross Road sign.

Where to read the rest

• Full text: MUTCD Section 2C.41: Intersection Warning Signs
• 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

Related signs in Section 2C.41