Increase in Number of Lanes
The sign indicates that the number of lanes is increasing.
When You See This Sign
When you see the sign you should prepare for there soon being more lanes in your direction by checking mirrors and blind spots and planning your lane choice. Stay in your lane if you do not need to change, or signal and move safely if you want to use the new lane.
Rules & Regulations
- Sign F16 informatively indicates that the number of lanes in your direction of travel is increasing — it is a location sign, not a mandatory sign.
- The presence of the sign does not change priority rules; you must still obey right-of-way and speed regulations as well as any other road signs at the location.
- When you move into or use the new lane, the same requirements for safe following distance and proper signaling apply as for any lane change.
- The sign may be placed before an on-ramp or where a lane is added, and provides advance notice so you can plan your lane choice in good time.
Tips for Drivers
- Check your mirrors and blind spot early — plan your lane choice before you reach the place where the lane is added.
- Use your turn signal well in advance if you intend to move into the new lane, even if more lanes open up ahead of you.
- Do not brake suddenly or accelerate aggressively to block another driver; use the added lane to distribute traffic calmly.
- If multiple vehicles are changing lanes when new lanes open, cooperate by reading other drivers' intentions and keeping a safe distance.
Common Mistakes
- Believing that the sign gives the right to cut in front of other vehicles — it does not grant any special right of way.
- Misunderstanding that you must always change lanes when the sign is seen; it only informs you that an extra lane is available.
- Ignoring the need to signal and check the blind spot because there will be 'more lanes' — this increases the risk of a collision.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Increase in Number of Lanes
What does this road sign indicate?
- A The number of lanes on the road increases ahead.
- B The lanes merge and you must yield to oncoming traffic.
- C A lane ends and you must change into the remaining lane.
- D The road gets a dedicated lane for cyclists.
Exam Tip
On the theory test a question may try to mislead by claiming that the sign gives priority or requires a lane change — the correct answer is that it only informs about more lanes and does not change priority rules.
Did You Know?
F16 is part of the series of location signs and is often used on highway upgrades or in urban areas where an extra lane is added to improve capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the sign mean I have to change lanes?
No. The sign only indicates that the number of lanes increases. You should change lanes only if necessary or beneficial, and when you do you must signal and check that it is safe.
Do I get priority when an extra lane opens?
No. The sign does not grant priority. Normal right-of-way rules and any other signs or road markings determine who has priority.
Where will I typically see this sign?
Typically on motorways, larger country roads, or in urban areas where a new lane is added ahead of exits, on-ramps, or to increase capacity.
Do I need to use indicators when I move into the new lane?
Yes. As with any lane change you must use your indicators in good time and check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes.
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