Keep Left Signs

Keep Left Signs FAQ

What is a Keep Left sign?

A Keep Left sign (MUTCD R4-8) directs drivers to pass to the left of an obstruction, median, or divider. It is the mirror of the Keep Right sign and is placed on the side of an obstruction where traffic should stay left.

Where are Keep Left signs used?

Keep Left signs are commonly used on divided highways and at medians, islands, and other obstructions in the roadway, guiding drivers to the correct side. A driver turning left onto a divided highway may see a Keep Left sign in the median pointing up and to the left.

What is the difference between the R4-8 Keep Left variants?

R4-8 is the standard Keep Left symbol sign, R4-8a uses a horizontal arrow, and R4-8b uses an angled arrow. R4-8c is a narrow symbol version for use in medians that are less than 4 feet wide.

What size Keep Left sign should I choose?

Per MUTCD Section 2B, Table 2B-1, size depends on roadway type and speed. 24x30 is used on single- and multi-lane roads and highways, 36x48 (expressway) and 48x60 (freeway) are minimums for interstates, and 18x24 is the federal minimum for low-volume roads. The 18x30-inch narrow sign is used only in medians under 4 feet wide.

What is the difference between Keep Left and Keep Right signs?

Keep Left (R4-8) and Keep Right (R4-7) are mirror images used on opposite sides of an obstruction. Keep Left tells drivers to pass to the left of the divider, while Keep Right tells them to pass to the right; they are often used as a pair on divided highways.

Are Keep Left signs MUTCD compliant, and what materials are used?

The R4-8 series meets MUTCD specifications for public roads. Signs are made on rust-proof .080-inch aluminum with High Intensity Prismatic or full-cube prismatic reflective sheeting.