Experts are warning drivers in the UK to brush up on their road signs, as more than half struggle with the Highway Code.
Motorists are being urged to check their knowledge after the AA found that half find parts of the Highway Code difficult to navigate.
One way drivers can refresh their knowledge is by checking how easily they can identify these key road signs, which could help them avoid dangerous driving and costly mistakes.
An expert from One Sure Insurance highlighted a number of road signs that can cause confusion for many motorists.
7 common speed camera myths
They said: "We see a lot of accidents or traffic violations happen because drivers simply don’t understand or recognise certain road signs.
"These mistakes may seem minor at first, but they can lead to fines, insurance claims, and in worst-case scenarios, serious accidents. It's vital to take the time to understand every road sign you encounter.
To avoid misunderstandings, experts recommend that drivers regularly review and familiarise themselves with the Highway Code and make sure to check for any new or updated road signs in their area.
Drivers should also remain extra cautious when traveling through unfamiliar roads or areas where traffic signs may be less visible or harder to spot.
But how many of these common road signs could you recognise?
The Clearway Sign
(Image: Highway Code) This is one of the more common road signs but is still confused by some drivers.
The Clearway sign means drivers are not permitted to stop at all, and misunderstanding the sign can lead to a fine for illegal stopping.
The Zone Ends Sign
(Image: Highway Code) The Zone Ends sign marks the end of a local parking restriction zone, usually meaning parking is free past this point.
Drivers should always double-check, however, to avoid parking fines since restrictions could still apply in certain areas.
The No Entry Sign
(Image: Highway Code) This sign indicates the road ahead is restricted to all vehicles, and breaking it can mean a fine for breaking traffic regulations.
If you see this sign as a driver, you are not permitted to enter that particular road or area and should turn around and proceed in a safe alternative direction.
The Toad Crossing Sign
(Image: Highway Code) This sign is more common to drivers in rural areas, where it signals that toads frequently cross here on their way to their seasonal homes.
Recommended Reading
- Millions of drivers warned of hefty fines over common roundabout mistake
- DVLA issues warning to drivers as licence mistake could lead to £1,000 fines
- Drivers warned of £1,000 fines over common 'friendly gesture'
This sign, while it might seem quirky, is important for preserving local wildlife and ensuring drivers slow down to avoid accidents.
The Slippery Road Sign
(Image: Highway Code) This sign warns drivers of slippery surfaces ahead, which could be due to ice, water, or loose gravel.
While drivers usually slow down for icy roads, they might ignore it on wet roads or after rainfall, but these surfaces can be just as dangerous.
It's important to slow down and drive with extra caution when this sign is present.
The Narrow Bridge Sign
(Image: Highway Code) Many drivers fail to recognise this sign which leads to delays, since this sign marks a bridge that only allows for one vehicle to pass at a time.
If you see this bridge, be prepared to give way to oncoming traffic if necessary.
The Deer Crossing Sign
(Image: Highway Code) The deer crossing sign can be unfamiliar to those who don’t often travel through rural or woodland areas.
Since deer can cross roads unexpectedly, this sign is a reminder to stay vigilant when driving in rural areas, especially at dawn and dusk when deer are most active.
The Cattle Crossing Sign
(Image: Highway Code) This sign warns drivers in rural areas that livestock such as cows may be crossing the road.
These signs may not be as familiar to city drivers, but they’re crucial for rural road safety.
Drivers should be prepared for sudden livestock crossings, especially in farming regions where animals may be unexpectedly moving along the road.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated: 1st January 1970 12:00 am
Report this comment Cancel