School Ahead Sign
Shape: Equilateral triangle (pointing up) · Colour: Yellow/white with red border
A school is nearby. Children may be crossing or walking on or near the road.
What It Means
This is one of the most important warning signs in India. Children are unpredictable pedestrians — they may run into the road without checking for traffic, chase a ball, or be distracted. The Ministry of Road Transport has mandated additional measures near schools including speed breakers, signage, and sometimes school crossing guards. Peak risk times are 7–9 AM and 1–4 PM on school days.
📍 Where You'll See It
On roads adjacent to or approaching schools, typically 150–300 metres before the school entrance.
✅ What You Must Do
Reduce speed immediately — ideally to 30 km/h or below. Watch both sides carefully. Be prepared to stop at any moment. Never overtake near a school sign.
⚠️ Common Mistake
Driving at normal speed because it is a weekend or holiday. The sign is permanent; the risk from children in the vicinity is present on many days.
⚖️ Legal Note
Speeding in a school zone: Sec. 183 MV Act. Enhanced penalty possible. Causing harm to a child: IPC/BNS provisions for grievous hurt.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Other Cautionary Signs
Pedestrian Crossing
A pedestrian crossing (zebra crossing) is ahead. Pedestrians have right of way.
Narrow Road Ahead
The road narrows significantly ahead — from both sides. Reduced width for the oncoming stretch.
Steep Ascent
A steep uphill gradient lies ahead.
Steep Descent
A steep downhill gradient lies ahead.
Slippery Road
The road surface is slippery — due to rain, oil, loose gravel, or mud.
Road Hump
A speed breaker or road hump is present on the road ahead.