Many drivers confused by UK road sign that's 'often misunderstood'
The sign is often misinterpreted by drivers - but knowing what it means is crucial for staying safe on narrow roads
UK drivers frequently find themselves puzzled by a triangular road sign that plays a vital role in safely navigating narrow roads. The roads across the country are filled with different signs designed to guide, inform, and alert drivers.
If you haven't refreshed your memory on the Highway Code recently, you might be unclear about some of its meanings. Experts in driving have highlighted one specific sign that often confuses motorists. This sign has a red border and contains two black arrows that point in opposite directions.
Even though many drivers recognise it, they are often surprised to learn its actual significance. The RAC explains that this sign signals that you are nearing the end of a one-way street and will soon be entering a two-way road, reports Lancs Live.
The RAC website states: "If the arrows are positioned vertically, it means the road you're driving on will soon carry two-way traffic." Drivers are advised to keep to the left side of the road and be cautious of vehicles coming from the opposite direction.When the arrows are horizontal, it indicates that you will need to make a left or right turn to proceed onto the two-way road ahead.
Car repair specialists at Bumper have commented that this simple sign can often catch drivers off guard. "This is a warning sign, and all triangular signs fall into that category," says a Bumper spokesperson.
"In this case, the two arrows – one pointing left and one pointing right – indicate that you're approaching a section of road where two-way traffic crosses your path." You often spot this sign after a one-way road or a narrow single-lane area, especially in rural or residential neighbourhoods, where traffic has been flowing in just one direction.
"In plain terms, it's a heads-up that oncoming vehicles may now be travelling towards you, so you need to adjust your driving and stay alert," Bumper explains. A lot of drivers often believe that the sign just indicates the road is turning into a two-way street, but that's not completely accurate.
"The key detail is that the oncoming traffic crosses over your route," Bumper points out. "It's not just that the road is going to have two-way flow – it's that vehicles could appear more suddenly, and from a direction you weren't expecting."
Misunderstanding this could result in risky assumptions, particularly if drivers fail to reduce speed or yield when needed. It's natural for some road signs to slip our minds, especially those we don't encounter regularly. However, Bumper recommends reviewing the Highway Code from time to time to help avoid severe accidents. "This sign is a great example of how small misunderstandings can lead to big risks," the spokesperson adds.
"Spotting it and knowing what it means gives you a critical window to adjust your position on the road and stay safe." They went on to say: "So if you see a red triangle with two black arrows pointing in opposite directions? That's your cue to prepare for vehicles heading towards you – and to drive accordingly."
Another sign that frequently puzzles drivers is the 'no stopping' sign. In the UK, this sign, which is also referred to as a clearway sign, features a red cross on a blue circular background. This confusion might arise from its resemblance to the 'no waiting' sign. However, the importance of this sign cannot be overstated. Drivers must not stop their vehicles in this area for any reason.