1. Understanding Road Signs

Road signs provide essential information to keep drivers and pedestrians safe. The shape and color of a sign indicate its meaning:

1. Triangular signs provide warnings.
2. Rectangular signs offer information.
3. Brown background signs provide tourist information.
4. Octagonal signs (e.g., ‘STOP’ sign) are unique for recognition even when partially obscured.
5. Circular signs give orders.
   • Blue circles provide instructions or designate a route for specific road users (e.g., cyclists, pedestrians, trams).
   • Red circles indicate prohibitions (e.g., speed limits, no entry).

2. Speed Limits

1. Maximum speed limits appear inside red circles, and drivers must not exceed the indicated speed.
2. If no speed limit is posted, national speed limits apply.
3. Speed-limit signs may be combined with traffic-calming indicators.

To understand all road signs, refer to Road and Traffic Signs.

3. Road Markings

Road markings convey information, orders, or warnings. More paint generally means a more critical message.

Markings along the middle of the road

1. Short broken white lines mark the center.
2. Longer broken white lines indicate hazard warnings—only overtake if the road ahead is clear.
3. Double white lines (solid on your side): You must not cross or straddle unless:
4. Turning into a junction or entrance.
5. Passing a stationary vehicle.
6. Overtaking a cyclist, horse, or maintenance vehicle moving at 10 mph or less.
7. White diagonal stripes/chevrons separate lanes.

Markings along the side of the road

1. White lines indicate the carriageway’s edge.
2. Yellow lines indicate waiting/stopping restrictions.
3. Zigzag lines (white at pedestrian crossings, yellow outside schools) prohibit stopping or parking.

Markings on or across the road

1. Broken lines across the road mean ‘give way’.
2. Single solid lines mean ‘stop’.
3. Other markings (e.g., ‘give way’ triangles, road humps, rumble devices) warn of hazards.

Reflective Studs

Used on motorways and roads for better visibility:

1. Amber: Indicates hazard warnings or speed restrictions.
2. Red: Prohibits lane use (e.g., lane closures, slip road restrictions).

4. Traffic Lights and Warning Lights

Traffic lights operate in a specific sequence. Some feature a green filter arrow, allowing movement in the indicated direction even if the main light isn’t green.

1. Traffic lights out of order: Proceed cautiously; no one has priority.
2. Red flashing lights at level crossings, bridges, and fire stations require a mandatory stop.
3. Roadwork controls: Traffic is managed by police officers, traffic lights, or stop/go boards.

Motorway Warning Lights

1. Amber lights indicate hazards, lane closures, or speed reductions.
2. Red X signals mean the lane is closed and must not be used.
3. Red lights at slip roads prohibit entry.

5. Signals Given by Drivers and Police Officers

Drivers may need to use arm signals for added clarity (e.g., turning right in heavy traffic). Additional signaling rules:

1. Delaying turn signals: If stopping just after a junction, signal only after passing it.
2. Horn use: Permitted only for warnings. Prohibited between 11:30 PM – 7:00 AM in built-up areas, except in danger.
3. Flashing headlights: Should only be used to alert others to your presence (not for greetings, impatience, or giving priority).
4. Hazard warning lights: Briefly used on motorways to warn of obstructions.

Police and Traffic Officer Signals

1. Officers may flash headlights, indicate left, and point left—pull over when safe.
2. Obey all signals from police officers, traffic officers, and school crossing patrols.

6. Road Lanes

1. Contraflow lanes flow opposite to the main traffic and are marked/signposted.
2. Motorway contraflows require reduced speed, lane discipline, and safe distances.
3. Overtaking lanes: The centre and right-hand lanes of three-lane motorways are for overtaking only; always return to the left lane when safe.
4. Left-side overtaking is prohibited unless traffic is moving slowly and the right lane is blocked.