If you drive on the highway, you will see many types of road signs installed on roads for your safety. For example: steep hill signs, slippery roads or speed limit signs. One of the most important warnings you will find alongside these is the dip road sign.
We have explained the meaning of dip road sign and why these boards are placed on roads. Today you can also learn their rules and how to react when you see them on your way.
What Does the Road Sign Dip Mean?
When you notice a dip road sign on the road, it tells you about the low area or small hollow on your way ahead. It means you will face a short dip in the road before it rises again.
In other words, this sign lets you know that your current road will not stay flat anymore. Generally, it is not a big problem when the weather is dry. But after rain, the dip on the road can be filled with water, which is dangerous for you while you are driving.
What Shape are Dip Signs?
The dip sign has a diamond shape. You can easily see it from far away because it looks like a diamond-shaped square. This shape is used to give you a warning message. When you see this shaped sign, you must drive carefully to avoid the risk of damage.
Dip Road Sign Color
You will always find dip traffic signs in yellow with black writing. Its bright yellow color makes it easy for you to see it clearly on the road. If you are driving too fast, you can still notice the presence of a sign from a distance.
The black letters “DIP” on board will also be clear for you to read quickly. So, this combination of colors is great to keep road users aware of the road situation ahead.
Dip Road Sign Rules
The standards for dip signs are made by MUTCD, road authorities, and transport departments in each country. If you don’t follow dip sign rules, it may harm your car. Further, you may face traffic fines or other penalties from road monitoring officers.
What to Do When You See a “Dip” Sign
When you see a dip road sign, you should pay attention in the following ways.
- You must keep control of your vehicle when you drive down.
- You have to remove your foot from the gas and use your car brakes lightly if required. But don’t press the brakes too long.
- In some places, road rules say you have to reduce your vehicle speed when you see a warning sign of a dip on a path.
- You should avoid overspeeding, because your car can bounce.
- After the dip, you can return to normal speed.
Can You Over Take a Dip in the Road?
You should not overtake whenever you see a dip on the road. The reason is: it will be hard for you to see other vehicles. They may appear suddenly. In this way, you will not have enough time to react and control your car. Hence, before you try to pass another vehicle, it’s safe for you to wait until the road is clear.
Why Dip Road Sign is Warning?
It is because, dip sign tells you about a sudden change in road surface which can be dangerous for you. This is also helpful for you to get ready before the dip, so you can drive safely and avoid problems such as bumps or loss of control. That’s why road authorities use dip signs as a warning sign.
Dip Road signs installation
The dip highway signs should be placed where the road has dip. You must install it 100 to 200 meters before the low area on the road. This distance is important to control the speed of the car early. On roads with a high speed limit, you should place signs farther away.
In multi-lane areas, you can set signs above the lanes or on both sides. Always remember to assess the location and then place signs which are clearly visible to the driver. Furthermore, the height and angle of signs should be according to location requirements.
Can Going Through a Dip Damage Your car?
Yes, when you cross a dip, it can harm your car. If you move quickly through a dip, your car can hit the ground hard which damages the tires, brakes or suspension.
For example: if you drive at over 100 miles per hour and hit a dip, your car may jump into the air and land with a strong hit. As a result, your car parts will bend under your car. To stay safe, you should drive slowly whenever you drive through a dip.
Hidden Dip Road Sign
Hidden dip traffic signs warn you about low points you can’t see right away. If we talk about the reason behind it, the dip can be hidden by a hill, curve or slope. Hence, it may surprise you if you don’t know the presence of low areas. Mostly, you will see this sign in hilly and rural areas.
What To Do When You See a Hidden Dip Sign?
You should stay alert, keep both hands on the steering wheel and watch carefully for other vehicles on the road. It’s best to avoid overtaking in this area. You must stay in your lane and drive slowly until you see a flat and clear road.
Dip Sign and Bump Sign
These both signs are installed to guide you about change in your way. However, dip signs and bump signs are not the same. Below table will show you their contrast.
| Main Points | Dip Sign | Bump Sign |
| Shape of Road | It show you a low area in road | This sign warn you about raised surface of road |
| Purpose | Remind you to prepare for dip | It alert you to slow down for a bump |
| Location | Mostly placed in rural or hilly areas and on winding roads | You will these signs in road speed bumps, uneven roads or humps |
Dip Sign Variations in Different Countries
You will notice that dip signs are not the same in every country. The size, shape and color may also change on the basis of local rules. For example:
- United Kingdom: Uses a diagram to show you road dip.
- Zimbabwe: In this place, you will see a red equilateral triangle with a black symbol on a yellow background.
- Japan: This country uses an inverted red triangle or may have diamond shaped signs for a dip warning.
We also recommend you to check our guide on road rules in the United States.
Final Note
In summary, dip road signs not only warn you about low or hidden areas, but they also keep your car and passengers safe. We advise you to always maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. In this way, you will get enough time to get ready for sudden changes in the road.
If you need quality signs or complete traffic safety solutions, you can contact our team. Our products are long-lasting, highly visible and designed according to MUTCD standards.
FAQs
What is the Reason For a Dip in Road?
A dip in the road is created when the road goes down for a short distance. It can be due to natural land shapes, such as hills and valleys. Also, water drainage is the reason for the dip. Sometimes, they are made to control water flow and prevent you from flooding on the road.
Which way Does the Dip Symbol Point?
The dip symbol generally points downward to show you the road is down at that spot. It is helpful for you to see the dip ahead and prepare your car for the low area.
Are There Speed Limits Near a Dip?
Yes, there are lower speed limits near dips. If you drive too fast, your car can hit the surface or lose control. That’s why, speed limit rule is safe for drivers to avoid damage to vehicles.
Can a Dip Road Sign Be Reflective
Yes, a dip road sign can be made with a reflective sheet. These types of signs shine when your car headlights hit them, so you can see them clearly at night. They are more useful for you on dark or rural roads where visibility is low.
Can the Dip Sign Warn About Flooding?
Sometimes, the dip sign can warn you about flooding. As you know, dips are low areas on the road where water can collect after rain. The sign tells you to slow down to avoid a deep hit into the water.
