Ford sign

What it means

There is a ford ahead where the road crosses water.

A ford is a shallow crossing where the road runs through a stream or river. The sign has the word Ford in place of a symbol.

Slow down and check the depth before you enter. Afterwards, test your brakes, because they can be less effective after driving through deep water.

Where you'll see it

On country roads that cross streams or small rivers without a bridge.

Rules to know

• This is a worded warning. 'Ford' may be varied to 'Flood', 'Gate', 'Gates' or 'No smoking'.

  Know Your Traffic Signs, p. 12

• The depth of water at a ford may be shown in both metric and imperial units, or in imperial units only.

  Know Your Traffic Signs, p. 139

• After driving through deep water your brakes may be less effective. Test them at the first safe opportunity.

  The Highway Code, Rule 121

Common mistakes

• Mistake: Driving through at speed to get across quickly.

  Instead: Slow down, check the depth, and test your brakes once you are through.

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?

• AWarns that children may be crossing or near the road on their way to or from school.
• BWarns of a double bend ahead, first to the left.
• CThe maximum headroom under the bridge ahead
• DA ford, where the road crosses water

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