Warning sign
Traffic signals ahead sign

What does the Traffic signals ahead sign mean?
Warns that traffic lights are coming up, often where you could not otherwise see them in time. Be ready to stop.
Also known as: Traffic lights ahead
What it means
Traffic lights are ahead, so be ready to stop.
The sign shows a set of traffic lights. It tells you to expect signals ahead, often where they would be hard to see in good time, such as after a bend or the brow of a hill.
Slow down and look for the signals. A plate may show the distance to the stop line, and a version of the sign is used where the signals only work at certain times.
Where you'll see it
On the approach to traffic lights, especially where you could not otherwise see them early.
Rules to know
The sign warns of traffic signals ahead. A version is used for signals that operate only at certain times.
Know Your Traffic Signs, p. 10
You MUST NOT move forward over the white line when the red light is showing.
The Highway Code, Rule 176
Read more
Common mistakes
Mistake: Ignoring the sign because the lights are not yet in view.
Instead: Ease off and be ready to stop. The lights may change before you reach them.
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© Crown copyright. Free to reuse under the Open Government Licence v3.0, as long as the sign is reproduced accurately and not in a misleading context.
Related signs
See also
When red light shows wait here
Temporary sign
Temporary signals for road works.
See also
Traffic queues likely ahead
Warning sign
Another warning of traffic ahead.
More warning signs
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- Know Your Traffic Signs (Department for Transport, Sixth edition, 2023), Warning signs, p. 10
- The Highway Code, Rule 176
Sign image: Department for Transport, Traffic sign images (diagram 543). © Crown copyright, reused under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Last reviewed 11 October 2026. This page explains the sign in our own words; for the full rules, see The Highway Code. How we source and check content