Deer crossing sign: what it means
The deer crossing sign warns that deer may enter the road ahead. Slow down and watch the sides of the road.
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What it means
MUTCD Section 2C.55: non-vehicular warning signs, including the deer sign, may be used to alert road users in advance of places where unexpected entries into the roadway might occur.
The danger might be at one spot, or anywhere along a stretch of road.
Where you see it
Before stretches of road where deer might enter the roadway unexpectedly.
A common mistake
Keeping full speed and counting on quick reactions. Slow down where you see the sign, so you have time to brake if an animal appears.
Quick quiz
What does a deer crossing sign tell you?
- Deer might enter the road ahead
- A zoo is nearby
- Animals must be kept on a leash
Show answer
A. Deer might enter the road ahead. Section 2C.55: the sign warns of places where unexpected entries into the roadway might occur. Source: MUTCD 11th Edition, Chapter 2C, Warning Signs and Object Markers: Section 2C.55, FHWA; MUTCD 11th Edition, FHWA
Compare with
Pedestrian crossing signPeople may be crossing ahead.
Slippery when wet signThe road can be slippery when wet.
Curve ahead signThe road curves ahead.
Next in warning signs: Pedestrian crossing sign. See all warning signs or the full road signs list.
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Sources
- MUTCD 11th Edition, Chapter 2C, Warning Signs and Object Markers: Section 2C.55, FHWA
- MUTCD 11th Edition, FHWA. FHWA lists the current version as the 11th Edition with Revision 1, dated December 2025
Sign pictures are our own simplified drawings of the MUTCD designs, which are in the public domain (MUTCD Section 1D.06). Sources and image credits.