Sharp turn left
What does it mean?
A sharp left turn in the road is ahead. The bent arrow warns you to prepare for the road's direction change; it is different from a regulatory left-turn-only lane sign.
What to do when you see it
- Slow before the sharp turn.
- Use any advisory-speed plaque as guidance and go slower when conditions require.
- Keep your path within the marked lane.
How to recognize it
- Yellow diamond with a black arrow.
- The arrow bends sharply to the left rather than forming a smooth curve.
On the road
A country road makes a tight left bend after a straight stretch. You reduce speed while still on the straight section, then follow the bend without crossing the centerline.
Don’t confuse it with
Curve left
Curve Left uses a smoothly bending arrow; the sharply bent Turn arrow warns of a tighter alignment.
Chevron alignment
Chevrons are rectangular markers that guide you along the turn itself.
Put the meaning into practice
The related quiz includes this sign and other study questions. State practice can also cover local rules; it is not an official DMV exam.
Common U.S. sign recognition, reviewed October 3, 2026. Actual sign values, additional plaques and local rules can change how you should respond.