A driver asks about the congestion ahead warning signs she saw when travelling in the northbound lanes of Highway 1 as you leave Langford towards Goldstream. She was curious about the symbol of three cars with their flashers on. What does this sign mean?
Congestion Ahead Warning
The symbol is meant to show brake lights on rather than hazard flashers.
This is a W-036 congestion ahead warning sign identified in the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure's Graphic Sign Index. It warns of the possibility of encountering congestion or stopped traffic ahead. Drivers encountering these signs must be aware that they may be required to slow or stop with limited or no notice.
In the case shown above, it is on a highway with a posted speed of 90 km/h and a limited sight distance due to a curve.
Don't Just Focus on What's Ahead
In this situation it could be just as important to keep an eye on your rear view mirror. Congestion crashes are rear end collisions and you may wish to take steps to try and mitigate the consequences of being hit by the vehicle behind you as well as avoiding a collision with the queue if it exists.
Associated Signs
The sign may also have either of the following two tabs, queues likely or congestion ahead, attached below the diamond:
Overhead signs with flashing yellow lights, the word congestion and the diamond symbol may also be used:
Sources of Road Sign Information
Chapter 3 of our provincial driving manual Learn to Drive Smart explains Signs, Signals and Road Markings. The chapter's 12 pages only cover the basics and these signs to not appear there.
The Manual of Standard Traffic Signs and Pavement Markings lists many more examples, but these signs are not mentioned here either.
The Catalogue of Traffic Signs lists all of the signs approved for use on B.C.'s roads but does not explain them.
The symbols used are similar in most countries around the world.
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