Recommended Lower Speed
The sign recommends a lower speed for increased safety.
When You See This Sign
When you see the sign you should immediately plan to reduce your speed to a level that is safer for the apparent hazard. Slow down in good time, check your mirrors and keep extra watch over the area; remember the sign is advisory but you must always adapt your driving to the current conditions.
Rules & Regulations
- The E11 sign is advisory: it recommends a lower speed but does not introduce a legally binding speed limit.
- You must still adjust your speed to road conditions, visibility and traffic; the recommendation indicates what is considered safer in the current situation.
- The sign is placed where particular risks occur (for example sharp bends, tunnel entrances, school crossings, or roadworks) and can be supplemented with a number plate indicating a recommended speed.
- Not following the recommendation normally does not lead to a fine in itself, but if your speed is judged to be dangerous in relation to the circumstances you can be held liable for dangerous driving.
Tips for Drivers
- Slow down in good time and brake gently so that vehicles behind can react, rather than making a sudden stop.
- Check your mirrors and adjust the distance to the vehicle ahead so you have time to react if an obstacle appears in the risk area.
- Be extra aware of vulnerable road users (pedestrians, cyclists) and vehicles that may stop or turn suddenly near the sign.
- Follow the recommendation especially carefully in poor visibility, rain, or slippery conditions - the recommendation often reflects situations where the risk of accidents increases.
Common Mistakes
- Believing the sign indicates a mandatory speed limit instead of a recommendation.
- Braking suddenly without checking the traffic behind, which increases the risk of a rear-end collision.
- Ignoring the sign entirely because it is not legally binding and thereby missing a genuine safety hazard on the road.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Recommended Lower Speed
What does this road sign mean for you as a driver?
- A It is recommended that you drive at a lower speed for increased safety (non-binding).
- B It indicates a new mandatory speed limit.
- C It shows the minimum permitted speed on the section.
- D It prohibits overtaking on the section.
Exam Tip
On the theory test questions often try to get you to say that the sign is mandatory. Remember: E11 is a recommendation, not a legal speed limit - but your actual speed still must be safe for the conditions.
Did You Know?
The sign was introduced to guide drivers in risk areas without having to introduce new legal speed limits and is often used for temporary hazards such as roadworks, before tunnel entrances, and sharp bends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be fined if I do not keep the recommended speed?
No, not following a recommendation itself normally does not result in a fine. However, you can be held liable for dangerous driving if your speed is judged to be inappropriate or dangerous in relation to the road and traffic conditions.
Can the sign have a number showing the recommended speed?
Yes, the sign can be supplemented with a number plate that shows a specific recommended speed. That number is still advisory and not a binding speed limit.
Does the sign apply to motorcycles and heavy vehicles as well?
Yes, the recommendation applies to all road users regardless of vehicle type - the purpose is to reduce risk regardless of what kind of vehicle you are driving. Always adjust your speed to the vehicle's characteristics and load.
Can the sign be combined with other traffic signs?
Yes, it often appears together with warning signs, roadwork signs, or temporary restrictions. Follow the binding signs first and foremost, but take the recommendation seriously as additional safety advice.
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