What are Turnout Areas?

Along certain routes, you will occasionally see a sign that says ‘slower traffic use turnouts’. What does it mean, and for who?

Turnout areas are special areas next to the road that drivers can enter. They are meant to help create a smooth traffic flow on roads without passing lanes or where overtaking may be difficult or impossible. Slower vehicles can then enter a turnout area to let traffic behind pass safely.

The law may require you to use a turnout area. For example, in California, when a sign says ‘slower traffic use turnouts’, you must use a turnout area if you are driving slowly on a road where passing is unsafe and 5 or more vehicles are following.

‘Slower traffic use turnouts’-sign on the side of the road