There are some strange road signs across the UK that could land drivers with hefty penalties if they are misunderstood or ignored.
Some of the little-known signs could confuse even the most experienced motorists. But drivers must understand them to keep them safe and reduce accidents.
In most cases, failing to comply with signs is dealt with by a fixed penalty of three points and a fine of £100, according to motoring experts at Quotezone.co.uk. However, if a driver already has points on their licence, it could add up to disqualification or a fine of up to £1,000 at a magistrate's discretion.
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Unusual road signs include quiet lane signs, quayside signs, otter and toad crossings, and the blank ‘no vehicles’ sign. Road users who disregard the signs and have a crash or risk the safety of others could be prosecuted for traffic offences and face an unlimited fine or even jail.
Greg Wilson, CEO and founder of Quotezone.co.uk, said: "From tanks crossing to horse-drawn vehicle warnings, drivers should familiarise themselves with even the strangest signs to stay safe on the roads. The Highway Code does not cover all the road signs in the UK, so the onus is on the motorist to keep up to speed with the latest additions.
"Whether you have just started learning to drive or have held a licence for a long time, understanding traffic signs is vital to driving safely and could be costly if you find yourself unable to recognise their meaning."
Here are seven strange road signs identified by Quotezone.co.uk.
1. No Vehicles
This empty red sign has left many drivers confused. The blank circle doesn’t give many clues as it looks half-finished. According to the Highway Code, it means all vehicles are prohibited except for pedal cycles which pedestrians must push.
2. Migratory toads crossing
This road sign warns drivers to beware of toads crossing the road, so motorists should proceed cautiously or may have to change routes. These signs are most common in early Spring to help amphibians reach their spawning grounds.
3. Horse-drawn Vehicles
Although this sign seems outdated for the 21st Century, it is still used on roads around the UK. It means horse-drawn vehicles will likely be using the road ahead, which may make it slow and difficult to move past, so be extra cautious.
4. Slow-Moving Military Vehicles
This road sign informs motorists a slow-moving military vehicle is likely to be crossing or in the road ahead. If the military vehicle is large, it may take up more than one lane on the road, so be extra careful when overtaking. There are only eight of these signs around England, so one of the most unusual signs.
5. Start of a designated quiet lane
The aim of quiet lanes is to maintain the character of minor rural roads by seeking to contain rising widespread traffic growth in rural areas. Requirements to be identified as a quiet lane and get a sign include having less than 1,000 vehicles travel through a day and having a traffic speed of less than 35mph. The signs are usually on narrow single-track roads, so don’t expect to see them in busy cities.
6. Quayside or riverbank
It is very important to know the meaning of this sign as it could prevent a catastrophe for unknowing drivers. It is a warning to motorists they are coming to the end of a road and approaching either a riverside or quayside and may not be able to see the edge.
7. No Vehicles Carrying Explosives
This sign may be confusing because, at first glance, it looks like an exploding car, so it may send drivers into a panic. The sign means no explosives are allowed in the area, so it only applies to a few motorists carrying dangerous loads. Stay clear if you have a car full of fireworks.
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