What does the pavement ends sign mean?
The paved surface ends ahead. Slow down for the loose surface
This sign warns that the paved surface ends ahead and the road becomes gravel or earth. Slow down. Loose surfaces reduce traction and stopping ability.
Why the other answers are wrong
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Fresh pavement begins ahead
This is backwards. The symbol changes from a smooth band to a rough one, so the paved part is what ends. Yellow diamonds warn about a hazard coming up, not about a better surface.
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The road is closed ahead
The road keeps going here, only the surface changes. Closures and detours are posted on orange temporary condition signs, so a yellow diamond like this one warns about conditions instead.
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A speed bump is ahead
Bumps and uneven pavement have their own warning sign. The symbol here stays flat and turns grainy along its length, which pictures a change of surface, not something raised you drive over.
Quick way to remember
The smooth part of the symbol turns rough.
Based on the official Ontario MTO Driver's Handbook.
Reading it once is not enough
Drill this question in a scored round and find out what else you are shaky on.
Practise Road Signs: Warnings
