There are lots of road signs that drivers need to recognise and obey in the UK. However, some signs are not seen as often or can be confusing. Studies have shown that between 50% and 66% of drivers in Britain do not actually know what everyday road signs mean when they drive by them. This shows that many people find traffic signs unclear or hard to understand while driving.
National Speed Limit: Understanding the Limits

One commonly misinterpreted sign is the national speed limit sign. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t mark the end of a speed limit; instead, it indicates the national speed limit for that specific road. The speed limits vary: 30mph in built-up areas, 60mph on single carriageways for cars and vans (50mph for towing or heavier vehicles), and 70mph on dual carriageways and motorways for cars and vans (60mph or 70mph for larger vehicles).
No Motor Vehicles: Beyond Cars and Motorbikes

The “No Motor Vehicles” sign does not exclusively mean “cars and motorbikes only” or, for that matter, “no flying motorcycles.” Instead, it indicates that motor vehicles are prohibited, allowing pedestrians and cyclists to use the road beyond the sign freely.
Tunnel Restriction Code Sign: Navigating Tunnel Restrictions

This sign indicates that the upcoming road leads to a tunnel with restrictions on the types of vehicles allowed to enter.
No Waiting: A Mix of Prohibition and Instruction

The “No Waiting” sign, often causing confusion, combines a red circle, commonly used to prohibit actions, and a blue background, typically providing positive instructions. Found in built-up areas, it aims to prevent parked cars from causing congestion or posing a danger where free-flowing traffic makes stopping hazardous.
No Stopping: A Red Cross for a Clear Message
Similar to the “No Waiting” sign, the “No Stopping” sign uses a red circle and blue background. The red cross serves as a clear indication, often found on urban clearways where traffic flows freely at higher speeds.
Minimum Speed: A Less Common Warning

A blue circular background with a white number signifies a minimum speed rather than a speed limit. Although less common, this sign warns drivers to maintain a minimum speed on the road.
Urban Clearway Sign: No Stopping During Certain Hours
The urban clearway sign informs drivers that they cannot stop and park during specific hours, except for buses and taxis.
Road Narrows on Both Sides: Distinguishing Features
Often confused with the end of a dual carriageway, this sign, featuring black lines that don’t touch, indicates that the road narrows on both sides.
T-Junction with Priority Over Vehicles from the Right
This sign signals a T-junction with dotted lines, instructing traffic from the right to give way. Drivers approaching this junction can turn without stopping, provided they remain vigilant for inattentive drivers.
Uneven Road: Eggs on Toast Indicator
Resembling two poached eggs on toast, this sign warns of an uneven road surface, distinguishing it from a single bump sign that indicates impending speed humps.
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FAQs
Where are ‘No Motor Vehicles’ Signs Located?
Authorities place these signs in various locations, such as pedestrian zones, park entrances, alleys, walking paths, and areas designated for pedestrian traffic.
What is the Penalty for Improperly Driving Past this Sign?
Driving a non-exempt motor vehicle past a ‘No Motor Vehicles’ sign violates traffic laws.
What Vehicles are Prohibited by this Sign?
Motor vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, mopeds, trucks, vans, and buses, cannot drive past a ‘No Motor Vehicles’ sign in the UK.