Motorway sign

Red X: lane closed sign

Red X signal: a black sign showing a red cross, with red lights at the corners — Sign image: Department for Transport, © Crown copyright

What does the Red X sign mean?

The lane this sign relates to is closed. You must not drive in it: move safely to an open lane.

Also known as: Red X sign, Lane closed signal

What it means

Do not drive in the lane the red X relates to. It is closed, and there may be people, stopped vehicles or other hazards in it.

A red X is shown over a lane, or at the side of the motorway for the lane next to it, together with red lights flashing in pairs.

Earlier signals will usually tell you to move to another lane. Do so in good time and safely. The lane stays closed until a sign shows a speed limit or the word END.

Where you'll see it

Above lanes on motorways with overhead signals, and at the side of smart motorways.

Rules to know

You must not drive in a closed lane, and you must follow the signs in advance of it to move safely to an open lane.
The Highway Code, Rule 258
A sign will tell you when the lane is no longer closed by showing a speed limit or the word END.
The Highway Code, Rule 258
Red lights flashing in pairs, together with a red cross on a sign at the side of the motorway, mean do not proceed in the lane to which the sign relates. More than one lane may be closed.
Know Your Traffic Signs, p. 105
Where the left lane is closed at an exit slip road, the exit cannot be used.
The Highway Code, Rule 258

What happens if you ignore it

Lane and road closures shown by red flashing lights are enforced by the police.
The Highway Code, Rule 258

General information, not legal advice. Enforcement can differ between areas.

Common mistakes

Mistake: Driving in the closed lane because it looks clear.
Instead: There may be a broken-down vehicle, people or emergency services ahead that you cannot see yet. You must not use it.