- Types of UK road signs that one should know Check them at a glance
- Road signs with triangular shapes
- Road signs in the shape of circles
- Road signs in the shape of rectangles
- Important road signs that are exceptions to the rules Have a look at them
- The National Speed Limit Sign
- The Give Way Sign
- The Stop Sign
- Variable message signs
- Common traffic signs in the UK that are difficult to recognize
Those who move through the streets of the UK will most certainly see the glaringly obvious road signs. These road signs never miss the eyes of a pedestrian or an observant commuter as they can be seen in large numbers on the roads and highways. However, those who are learner drivers must have ample knowledge about road signs. This blog is more like A Simple Guide to UK Road Signs which can help to learn more about such signs and signals that adorn the roads.
The correct interpretation of the signs and signals makes driving easier. Not only do these road signs communicate directions and other vital information but they also warn of the hazards as well. The signs and signals are the easiest way to convey road rules and ensure safety while reaching the destination. Knowing about road signs helps to avoid lengthy detours paving the way for a convenient journey.
However, there is nothing to get discouraged about the fact that there is a lot to learn about road signs in the UK. While driving one will encounter various colours and shapes and all of it is explained in the blog. One can get easily familiar with various traffic signs and a learner driver can prepare themselves before the driving test, particularly the theory test. Those who like to have a road sign refresher can go through this blog as there is plenty of valuable information up for the taking.
Types of UK road signs that one should know Check them at a glance
Most of the UK road signs can be identified by their background shapes and colours. Having ample knowledge about these UK road signs and their respective shapes and colours helps in taking the type of action that is needed to work out while driving.
Let us have a look at the broader category of UK road signs according to their background shapes and colours.
Road signs with triangular shapes
- Triangle road signs red in colour warn about upcoming hazards.
Road signs in the shape of circles
- Red circles provide prohibitive instructions.
- Road signs with blue circles provide positive instructions.
Road signs with rectangular shapes
- Blue Convey directions on motorways and provide information on all roads.
- Green Provides direction signs on primary routes
- White Provides direction signs on local and non-primary routes
- Brown Provides direction signs about attractions and facilities as these are tourist directions.
- Yellow Provides direction signs, information and instructions about emergency diversion routes and traffic routes during road works.
Let us have a look at these UK Road Signs in detail.
Road signs with triangular shapes
Road users are warned with triangular signs about all kinds of potential hazards. The red borders suggest dangers. Moreover, it also indicates wild animals that are moving on the road ahead or at an upcoming junction. In some instances, small white signs are used along with triangular road signs of warning that come with an added explanatory text. This additional text might have a pictorial of children beneath which says ‘School’. Moreover, a warning sign for traffic lights is indicated by explanatory text saying ‘Part time signals’.
Road signs in the shape of circles
Road signs in the shape of circles are also called regulatory road signs. These circular road signs are used for communicating road rules. This appears in two colours, red and blue. The type of instruction determines the colour of the circular road signs. However, all the circular road signs must be followed as it is mandatory to follow them. If anyone disobeys the circular road signs it is quite risky as one could be fined for that. Moreover, it also raises a question mark on the driving license and might indicate enrolling for a driving awareness course all over again.
- What do red circles indicate?
The red circular road signs provide prohibitive instructions. These road signs have a red ring and indicate at what place one must not do something. However, some of these circular road signs are completely red. The symbol present in the sign indicates something that is not permitted. Sometimes, the circular road signs have a red line that diagonally strikes through the symbol. The sign for speed limit is also a regulatory sign as one can see those fair few on roads. The number of miles per hour is indicated on these circular road signs and categorically sends a message to the driver to must not go past the number mentioned and go slower than that.
- What is indicated by the blue circles?
Any positive instructions are indicated by the blue circular road signs. This road sign indicates those things that one must do. Blue circles are used primarily for minimum speed limits. Moreover, these road signs help drivers when there is no other option but to follow a single route. These circles tell the driver to proceed ‘right only’ or indicate ‘a left turn ahead only’.
Road signs in the shape of rectangles
Certain road signs are meant to relay information to road users. For this, rectangular signs are used. Most of these rectangular road signs are generally direction signs. In today’s day and age of satellite navigation majority of them might seem outdated. However, these rectangular road signs are important as they help in following directions from signposts.
These rectangular road signs are important as it is hard to rely on electronic navigation completely. Those who have to clear practical driving tests are used to following rectangular road signs as having an idea of the different colours used for these road signs speaks volumes about the knowledge they have about driving. Moreover, having a good grasp of various colours of rectangular road signs provides different information about the type of road one is driving on.
- Blue rectangular road signs
White borders are an important feature of rectangular road signs. Two important roles are played by the blue rectangular road signs. Let us have a look at them quickly.
Directions are conveyed by blue signs on motorways. Those who are driving at a high speed can easily view these direction signs. The writing in white provides a higher contrast as it points towards the destination, cities and towns much before.
Moreover, other information is provided by blue rectangular road signs on all other roads. Most of this information is about the type and nature of the road ahead. The blue rectangular road signs indicate whether there is a one-way road ahead or is there any cycle or bus lane. A driver can fetch useful information like where to park the car or which driver has priority.
- Green rectangular road signs
Green rectangular road signs are important direction signs that can be seen on primary routes. A blue panel is used to highlight a section for showcasing a particular direction that points towards the motorway.
- White rectangular road signs
The White rectangular road signs are used to highlight a direction towards the non-primary route. These road signs are of 3 main types. Black borders are used in White rectangular road signs. Moreover, it also has black symbols and black writing that makes it easier to send the message across quickly.
- The White rectangular road signs are used for showing directions on local routes, and minor roads which are non-primary roads. Moreover, it also points drivers to general locations as well in the direction where parking opportunities are available.
- Moreover, the White rectangular road signs can be used along with other signs to provide more information. This information is primarily about regulation or warning. Most of the time, it is used beneath a circular or triangular sign.
The speed limit is also specified sometimes using this sign. It indicates advisory limits only and is not considered as an enforceable one. However, it is considered a mandatory sign when it is contained within a red ring. White rectangular road signs provide sensible recommendations according to the condition of the road.
- Furthermore, it is also used as a base for the signs which provides more information than standard. One can find a mix of circular or triangular traffic signs and text as the driver gets more information than usual.
- Brown rectangular road signs
Those who are looking for tourist information can get it from brown rectangular road signs. Road users are directed towards facilities and attractions with the help of these brown signs. The attractions are places of pleasure or public interest like zoos and museums. Whereas facilities are referred to as tourist amenities like hotels and campsites. A simple pictogram is displayed by the brown rectangular road signs that are easily recognized by the drivers. However, only those attractions and facilities are marked with Brown rectangular road signs where the visitors find it hard to locate them.
- Yellow rectangular road signs
Traffic routes during road works are indicated by Yellow rectangular road signs. These are temporary signs that provide instructions regarding lane closure or diversions. In some cases, emergency diversion routes are also indicated by yellow rectangular road signs. Nothing is written on them and a simple black shape that could be a circle, square, diamond or triangle is displayed.
The Yellow rectangular road signs are small in size and can be hardly seen. Moreover, it is used on signs where a lot of information is displayed. Following these signs helps to avoid congestion or planned work. Yellow rectangular road signs help to divert from the road and get them back on the road once again.
Important road signs that are exceptions to the rules Have a look at them
Those who know a few things about UK road signs are aware that some of these signs do not always follow the normal format. This makes these road signs an exception to the rule as they stand out.
Let us have a look at those prominent exceptions.
The National Speed Limit Sign
This is a circular sign which has black and white colours. One can easily recognize the national speed limit sign because of this colour. However, the national speed limit sign means different things for different roads. These road signs are available in dual carriageways as well as on country roads.
The Give Way Sign
This is a very common road sign and is an exception to this rule. One has to follow the Give Way Sign as it provides mandatory instructions. The upside-down triangle makes it easy to identify. Once this sign is viewed, one must give way to those on the major road. However, they must pull out when things are safe to do it that way.
The Stop Sign
This is a mandatory instruction and the stop sign also has a unique shape. The text stop is scripted within the octagon shape and this is an extremely important driving instruction for road users. Even if the stop sign is obscured by snow or dirt it is important to recognize them. The stop signs are generally found in junctions where it is important to stop and must not cross the solid white line.
Variable message signs
The variable message signs are road signs which get altered electronically. These road signs are used to display messages related to road and weather conditions. Most smart motorways have variable message signs. These road signs help to warn of queues as well as about any road closures ahead. Moreover, the Variable message signs are helpful for drivers as they get to know whether they are moving below or above the speed limit.
Common traffic signs in the UK that are difficult to recognize
There are plenty of UK traffic signs that are hard to recognize. These are primarily self-explanatory road signs. However, many of them are hard to figure out. Therefore, it is important to get a good grasp of these road signs.
Let us have a look at the list of these common UK traffic signs that are generally misunderstood.
- No waiting
- No overtaking
- No stopping
- Vehicles are prohibited
- No through road
- Priority must be given to those traffic that are coming from the opposite direction.
- Mini-roundabout-It means give way to the immediate right
- Pass either side to reach the same destination
That’s a wrap: Reach out to us at Confident Pass Driving School
To wrap things up, are you all set to book an appointment with our expert professionals? It is time to learn more about A Simple Guide to UK Road Signs as it guarantees a multitude of benefits. Those who have already cashed in on the benefits of going through this simple guide to Uk road signs had a great time driving on the roads.
If you are looking to fetch more information, then feel free to catch up with us at Confident Pass Driving School as it can certainly be the perfect choice for you.
We make sure that the client gets to know about all the road signs in the UK and finds it easier to drive. Want to know more? Visit our Website to scoop critical details today. Get in touch with us whenever you see fit.