Unsuitable for heavy goods vehicles sign

What it means

The route ahead is unsuitable for heavy goods vehicles, for example because it is narrow, steep or has tight bends.

A blue rectangle gives information, so this is advice rather than an order. Drivers of large vehicles should find another route.

The wording can be changed to name other vehicles, such as caravans or wide vehicles. Where large vehicles are actually banned, a red ring sign is used instead.

Where you'll see it

At the start of narrow lanes, steep roads and village streets that large vehicles struggle to use.

Rules to know

• The sign shows a route unsuitable for heavy goods vehicles.

  Know Your Traffic Signs, p. 134

• The wording may be varied to show that the route is unsuitable for other types of vehicle.

  Know Your Traffic Signs, p. 135

Common mistakes

• Mistake: Treating it as a legal ban.

  Instead: It is advice in a blue rectangle. Bans on vehicles are shown in red rings, such as maximum width or weight signs.

Test yourself

Recalling the answer helps it stick. Pick an answer to see how you did.

Question 1 of 1

What does this sign mean?

• ADirections to a tourist attraction
• BThe route is unsuitable for heavy goods vehicles
• CRecommended route for lorries
• DRoute for emergency vehicles only

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