Flagger Symbol Sign: Meaning and What to Do
The orange diamond showing a figure holding out a flag on a staff warns that a flagger is controlling traffic ahead. It says the same thing as the word version, FLAGGER AHEAD, in a symbol that drivers who cannot read the words still understand. The real flagger may use a flag or a STOP and SLOW paddle, and either carries the same legal force as a traffic signal.
Flagger Symbol Sign
Flaggers stand in the road at one-lane sections, entrances to work areas, and places where equipment crosses. A driver who fails to see the sign and arrives at speed threatens the flagger first and the crew behind them next.
What to do when you see the flagger symbol sign
Slow down, watch for the flagger, and obey the paddle exactly: stop when it shows STOP and stay stopped until it turns to SLOW and the flagger waves you on. Do not pass a vehicle stopped at a flagger, do not creep forward, and do not go until directed even if the road looks clear.
The signs it is confused with
Tests pair the symbol with the FLAGGER AHEAD word sign and with the Workers sign, an orange diamond that carries the word WORKERS and no figure. All three are orange diamonds; the figure with the flag identifies the flagger.
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Choose your stateQuestions about the flagger symbol sign
What does the flagger symbol sign mean?
A flagger is directing traffic ahead. Slow down and obey the flagger's paddle and hand signals as you would a traffic signal.
Do I have to obey a flagger?
Yes. A flagger's STOP paddle is a legal stop, and ignoring it carries the same penalties as running a signal, often increased in a work zone.
What does the SLOW side of the paddle mean?
Proceed slowly through the work area, watching for workers and equipment. It is not permission to resume speed.
How is it different from the workers sign?
The workers sign carries the word WORKERS and warns of a crew beside the road. The flagger sign shows a figure holding a flag and warns that someone is stopping traffic.
How does this sign appear on the written test?
In work zone questions about obeying flaggers and as a symbol-recognition item beside the word version.