Reduction of Lanes
The sign indicates that the number of lanes is decreasing
When You See This Sign
When you see the sign you should immediately begin preparing a safe lane change: check mirrors and the blind spot, signal well in advance, and adjust your speed so that you can smoothly move into the remaining lane. Make room for vehicles already in the continuing lane and follow any markings or supplementary signs.
Rules & Regulations
- The sign indicates that the number of lanes decreases ahead and signals that you will need to change lanes or that other traffic must merge into fewer lanes.
- You must adjust your speed and make room so that vehicles in the remaining lane can continue without undue strain — do not force others to brake.
- Follow road signs, road markings and any supplementary signs that show which lane ends or the distance at which this occurs.
- Signal in good time and only change lanes after checking mirrors and the blind spot; use a well-balanced, road-friendly "zipper" merging technique in heavy traffic.
Tips for Drivers
- Start checking your rearview mirrors and the blind spot in good time — don't wait until the last second before changing lanes.
- Reduce speed gradually instead of harsh braking; this makes the lane change safer for you and the traffic behind.
- Signal early and give priority to traffic in the remaining lane. Be considerate and choose a point where the lane change will be smooth.
- If several vehicles need to merge into the same lane, cooperate by allowing one vehicle at a time to merge (the "zipper method") rather than crowding.
Common Mistakes
- Waiting until the last second and forcing your way into the remaining lane, which creates dangerous braking and stress in traffic.
- Believing that the sign itself gives you priority — it does not change fundamental right-of-way rules; vehicles already in the remaining lane often have priority.
- Failing to notice supplementary signs that show the distance or which lane ends, and therefore changing lanes in the wrong place.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Reduction of Lanes
What does this sign mean?
- A The number of lanes decreases so you may need to yield or change lanes.
- B A new separate lane begins for exit traffic.
- C The lane is reserved for public transport.
- D The road turns into a motorway with more lanes.
Exam Tip
On the theory test you may be asked a question about right of way in connection with this sign — remember that the sign warns that a lane disappears but does not change the basic rule: vehicles already in the remaining lane usually have priority. Therefore answer that you should adjust your speed, signal and make room.
Did You Know?
The lane reduction sign is often used before bridges, narrowings and roadworks and is frequently combined with a supplementary sign showing the distance in meters to where the lane ends. The sign helps to distribute traffic before a narrower section and reduces the risk of sudden lane changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I start preparing when I see the sign?
Exact distance varies, but begin observing and planning as soon as you see the sign. If there is a supplementary sign with a meter indication it shows how far it is to the lane reduction.
Do I have priority if my lane ends?
No, the sign itself does not give you priority. Vehicles already in the remaining lane normally have priority, so adjust your driving and merge when it is safe.
Is it allowed to overtake in the lane that is about to end?
It is often inappropriate and unsafe to overtake in a lane that is ending because you risk forcing others to brake. Change lanes in good time and avoid overtaking in the lane that disappears.
Can the sign have supplementary signs or arrows?
Yes, supplementary signs often show distances or arrows indicating which lane ends. Follow these additions and the road markings to choose the correct place to change lanes.
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