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Lane-control signal
A red cross indicates a prohibition against using the lane in the direction towards the signal. A green arrow indicates that the lane may be used. A yellow arrow indicates that the lane will be closed, and that drivers must immediately change lanes in the direction indicated by the arrow.
When you see the sign
A red cross above a lane means that you are not allowed to use the lane in the direction of the signal. If you are already in the lane, you must move into an open lane as soon as this can be done safely, without continuing under the red cross.
Rules
- A red cross indicates that using the lane in the direction of the signal is prohibited.
- The prohibition applies only to the lane above which the signal is placed or to which it clearly applies.
- You must leave the closed lane by changing lanes safely and follow any arrow or other traffic control indicating where traffic should go.
- A red cross is not the same as a red light in a main signal; normally, you should change lanes rather than stop at a stop line.
Tips
- Look well ahead for lane signals, especially in tunnels, at roadworks and on roads with changing traffic directions.
- Start changing lanes early when you see a red cross, but check your mirrors and blind spot before moving over.
- Do not increase your speed to pass under the signal before the lane closes; the red cross means that the lane is already prohibited.
- Follow the signal above your own lane, as adjacent lanes may have a green arrow and remain open.
Common misconceptions
- Assuming that the red cross means that all lanes or the entire road is closed.
- Treating the signal like an ordinary red traffic light and stopping in the closed lane instead of changing lanes.
- Assuming that you can continue in the lane as long as there is no physical barrier.
Test yourself
Easy
What does this signal mean?
- AAll lanes on the road are closed in your direction of travel
- BThe lane below the signal is open to public transport
- CThe lane below the signal is closed in your direction of travel
- DThe lane below the signal may be used at reduced speed
Medium
You are driving in the lane below this signal, and the adjacent lane is open. What should you do?
- AChange to the open lane as soon as this can be done safely
- BReduce your speed and continue in the lane until the next intersection
- CContinue in the lane as long as there is no physical barrier
- DStop in the lane and wait until the signal changes to green
Hard
What distinguishes this signal image from a yellow arrow above the same lane?
- AThis applies to the entire road, while the yellow arrow applies only to the lane above which the arrow is placed
- BThis warns that the lane will soon be closed, while a yellow arrow means that the lane is already closed
- CThis requires stopping at the stop line, while the yellow arrow permits continued travel in the same lane
- DThis means that the lane is already closed, while the yellow arrow warns of closure and shows the direction for the lane change
Theory test tip
In the theory test, the trap may be the difference between a red cross and a yellow arrow signal: A red cross means that the lane cannot be used, while a yellow arrow warns that the lane will be closed and that you must change lanes immediately in the direction of the arrow.
Did you know
Lane signals are used, among other places, in tunnels, at roadworks and on sections of road where lanes can be opened or closed depending on traffic conditions. The same signal system can show a green arrow for an open lane, a yellow arrow to indicate that the lane will soon close, and a red cross for a closed lane.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive under a red cross if the lane looks empty and safe?
No. A red cross indicates an explicit prohibition against using the lane in the direction of the signal, regardless of whether you can see an obstruction.
Should I stop when I see a red cross above the lane?
Normally, you should not stop as you would at a red main signal. You should leave the lane by changing safely into a lane that is open, but you must not force your way in or make a dangerous lane change.
Does the red cross also apply to the adjacent lane?
No, the signal applies to the lane above which it is placed or towards which it is clearly directed. Adjacent lanes may be used if their signal shows a green arrow or they are otherwise open.
What is the difference between a red cross and a green arrow in a lane signal?
A red cross means that the lane is prohibited in the direction of the signal. A green arrow means that the lane may be used, but you must still follow other traffic rules and adapt your driving to the conditions.
Practise for the theory test
Teorio has the complete theory syllabus in your own language. Download the app and practise whenever it suits you.
