Understanding difficult road signs in the UK
07/10/2025
Last Updated: 7 October 2025
Read time: 5 minutes
Written by: Lauren McAfee
Insurance Writer and Editor
Reviewed by: Mark McKeown
Written in line with our Editorial Guidelines
There are hundreds of road signs in the UK, and it is your responsibility as a driver to ensure you understand them. However, many UK drivers still misread signs.
79% in the UK struggled to name the ‘with-flow bus and cycle lane’ sign, and almost half didn’t recognise the ‘no stopping’ sign*.
And misunderstanding signs isn’t just a theory issue. Ignoring a sign can mean a £100 fine and three licence points, with serious offences resulting in higher fines, disqualification, or even prosecution.**
Most common road signs in the UK
Whether it’s your first time on UK roads or you need a refresh after a break from driving, knowing these common road signs in the UK is a great starting point.
1. Stop sign
A red octagon with the word “STOP” in white letters. It requires a complete stop at junctions.
2. Give way signs
An inverted white triangle with a red border reading “GIVE WAY”. It shows which vehicle has priority at a junction.
3. National speed limit applies sign
A white circle with a black diagonal stripe. This indicates the default speed limit applies.
4. Speed limit signs
A white circle with a red border and a black number. The number indicated the maximum legal speed on that road.
5. Pedestrian crossing warning
A red triangle with a black figure walking on a crosswalk. This alerts drivers to a crossing ahead.
6. Warning signs for hazards
This will be a red triangle with black symbols indicating the specific hazard. It’s often used for bends, junctions, animals, and other hazards.
7. No entry
A red circle with a horizontal white bar in the centre. It prohibits entry to a street or section of road.
These are just some of the signs you will need to know for everyday driving in the UK. They are critical for safe navigation. However, a full review of the up to date highway code is best before you set out on your journey.
Misunderstood and difficult traffic signs
Even experienced drivers can struggle with some of the more confusing road signs. While you likely learned the core signs in the Highway Code while getting your licence, new signs are introduced regularly. And it is every driver’s responsibility to stay aware of their meanings. Hard road signs that are commonly misunderstood include:
1. Quiet lane
A green rectangular sign showing a car, bicycle, and pedestrian. This marks a minor rural road with low traffic where motor vehicles share the road with pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders. These signs are often misread due to their rarity and rural placement.
2. With-flow bus and cycle lane
A blue rectangular sign showing a bus and a bicycle. It indicates the lane for buses and bikes flows in the same direction as vehicle traffic. 79%* of drivers in the UK couldn’t name this sign.
3. Level crossing without barrier
A red crossbuck symbol, resembling an “X”. Alerts drivers to an unmanned level crossing ahead. This sign is frequently misread, increasing the risk at crossings.
4. No vehicles
A red circle with nothing inside. It prohibits all vehicles except pedal cycles pushed by pedestrians. 62%* of drivers fail to identify this sign correctly.
5. Quayside or riverbank
A red triangular warning sign showing a car falling into water. This warns that the road ends at a riverside or quayside. Many drivers approaching this sign fail to recognise the hazard until it is too late.
6. No stopping road sign (UK)
A red circle with a blue background and a red diagonal cross. Prohibits stopping for any reason, including picking up/dropping off passengers or loading goods. 42%* of drivers didn’t recognise this sign.
7. Road narrows sign (UK)
A red triangle with two converging black lines warns that the road ahead becomes narrower. This difficult road sign is often misinterpreted, especially in rural areas or when approaching bridges.
Why are some road signs hard to understand?
Some signs are tricky simply because they are new to the driver, or they use a design that we are not familiar with. Signs on complex sections of the road, such as roundabouts or staggered junctions, can also be overlooked, as you naturally focus on more immediate hazards.
Expert insights
Greg Wilson, CEO and Founder of Quotezone, said:
“Road signs play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of all road users.
“The Department for Transport don’t actually collect information on which road traffic signs are cited the most in UK road traffic incidents as part of their collision statistics, however 44% of all road accidents across Great Britain, in the latest data (2021)***, were at a roundabout, crossroad or staggered junction – some of the most difficult obstacles to manoeuvre on the road with the most complicated road signs, so we all need to practice our skills and refresh ourselves with the Highway Code on a regular basis.”
The consequences of confusing road signs
In most cases, failing to comply with signs is dealt with by a fixed penalty of three points and a fine of £100.
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.
Drivers who disregard the signs and have an accident or risk the safety of other motorists could be prosecuted for numerous traffic offences and face an unlimited fine or even jail.*
Recent trials have shown that the simplification of road signs and markings can reduce road traffic incident numbers, traffic flow and average traffic speeds – with a 48.6% annual reduction in incidents following an improvement test scheme.****
We search over 130 car insurance providers to save you hassle and money
Compare Car Insurance
We search over 130 car insurance providers to save you hassle and money
More useful car insurance guides
Drivers not sweeping leaves off the windscreen risk fines
Drivers are being warned that leaving autumn leaves on the windscreen could result in a £1,000 fine and penalty points…
What is the best time to renew car insurance?
Discover the best time to compare and renew car insurance in the UK. You could save up to 45% by…
How to make car insurance cheaper for young drivers?
Discover practical tips to cut car insurance costs for young or first-time drivers. From telematics policies to choosing cheaper cars…
How much is car insurance for 18 year olds in the UK?
The latest cost data shows the average premium for drivers aged 17-24 is £1098. Find the average cost in your…
Pros & cons of buying your first car on finance
Thinking of buying your first car on finance? Discover the pros and cons, costs, and key things to check before…
What happens after you pass your driving test?
Just passed your driving test? Learn what happens next, from applying for your full licence to insurance, tax, MOTs and…
References
*Quotezone research from Google trends data (2023)
** https://www.cps.gov.uk/crime-info/driving-offences
***https://roadtraffic.dft.gov.uk/custom-downloads/road-accidents/reports/0a631c4c-341c-4407-9090-97ee0975eb57
****https://www.rospa.com/media/documents/road-safety/road-observatory/Roads-Signing-and-marking.pdf
This article is intended as generic information only and is not intended to apply to anybody’s specific circumstances, demands or needs. The views expressed are not intended to provide any financial service or to give any recommendation or advice. Products and services are only mentioned for illustrative rather than promotional purposes.