Bump Sign
The bump sign warns of a raised section of road or a surface irregularity ahead that will cause a sudden jolt if crossed at speed. Drivers should slow down to reduce the impact on the vehicle and passengers.
Last updated: April 4, 2026
Unlike a dip, a bump is a convex rise in the road surface that causes the vehicle to compress upward. Bumps can cause vehicles to become briefly airborne at high speeds, which removes steering and braking control. They also occur near railway crossings, at temporary construction repairs, and at the edges of bridge decks.
Quick Facts
Type
Warning Sign
Shape
Diamond
Colours
Yellow background with black bump symbol
In this guide
What does the Bump Sign mean?
Unlike a dip, a bump is a convex rise in the road surface that causes the vehicle to compress upward. Bumps can cause vehicles to become briefly airborne at high speeds, which removes steering and braking control. They also occur near railway crossings, at temporary construction repairs, and at the edges of bridge decks.
What to do when you see it
Reduce speed before reaching the bump. Allow the suspension to absorb the impact at low speed. Grip the steering wheel firmly. Avoid braking on the bump itself, which can cause the wheels to lock on the landing.
Where you'll see it in Ontario
Bump signs appear near railway crossings, at temporary road repairs, at bridge deck transitions, and on roads with frost heave damage. They are more common in northern Ontario where frost cycles are more severe.
G1 test relevance
Bump signs are included in G1 warning sign identification questions. The physical sign shape distinguishes a bump from a dip: the bump symbol shows a raised hump while the dip symbol shows a depression.
Common mistakes drivers make
Swerving to avoid a bump rather than slowing down can cause a loss of control, especially on narrow roads. Slowing down is the safest response.
Related Signs
Dip Sign
The dip sign warns of a sharp low spot in the road ahead where the road surface drops and then rises quickly. At speed, vehicles may bounce, lose traction, or scrape their undercarriage.
Learn moreSoft Shoulder Sign
The soft shoulder sign warns that the unpaved shoulder alongside the road is soft or unstable. If a vehicle's wheels drop off the pavement edge onto the shoulder, regaining control requires careful technique.
Learn moreRailway Crossing Sign
The railway crossing sign warns of an upcoming level crossing where road vehicles cross over railway tracks. Drivers must slow down and be prepared to stop if a train is approaching.
Learn morePavement Ends Sign
The pavement ends sign warns that the paved road surface ends ahead and the road transitions to gravel, dirt, or a lower-quality surface. Drivers must reduce speed to maintain control on the changed surface.
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