Ask a Trooper by Troy Christianson

Question:  Are orange signs supposed to be advisory or warning signs? Can you get a ticket for going the speed of the white sign when there is also some orange signs posted? I’ve seen some construction zones with white and orange signs posted 55 mph and then some orange signs with 35 mph speed signs. What is the legal speed limit?

Answer:  The white speed limit signs are the official regulatory sign. The orange signs serve as a warning; even though they are not regulatory, they are intended to provide clear instructions to help you drive safely. So if the posted speed limit is 55 mph, and you see an orange sign indicating 35 mph, I would recommend slowing to the indicated speed.  Minnesota signs, signals and pavement markings conform to the national standards. Sign color meanings:

Regulatory

Red: Prohibits and commands

White: Regulates

Warning

Yellow: Warns

Yellow-green: Warns and controls pedestrian and bicycle crossings and school areas

Orange: Warns and controls in construction zones

Informational

Green: Guides and informs

Blue: Describes services for motorists

Brown: Indicates historic, cultural or recreational sites

You can avoid a ticket — and a crash — if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and always drive sober.  Help us drive Minnesota toward zero deaths.

If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson, Minnesota State Patrol, at 2900 48th St. NW, Rochester, MN 55901-5848; or reach him at, Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us.

Troy Christianson is a sergeant with the Minnesota State Patrol.