Mandatory Driving Direction for Vehicles Carrying Dangerous Goods
The sign indicates the mandatory driving direction for traffic with vehicles carrying loads that are subject to marking requirements with an orange sign according to regulations.
When You See This Sign
When you see the sign, if you are driving a vehicle carrying dangerous goods that must be marked with an orange plate, you must follow the indicated direction of travel without exception. If you are not driving such a vehicle, you do not have to follow the sign's instruction, but be aware of any supplementary signage that may affect all road users.
Rules & Regulations
- Sign D12 shows a pictogram arrow indicating a mandatory direction of travel that applies only to vehicles carrying dangerous goods that, under the regulations, must be marked with an orange plate.
- Only vehicles subject to the orange-plate requirement must follow the arrow's direction; other road users are not bound by this particular sign.
- Vehicles covered by the sign must follow one of the indicated directions (if several arrows are shown, all indicated options are permitted), and deviating from the sign constitutes a traffic violation for those vehicles.
- The sign interacts with other rules and prohibitions (e.g., tunnel restrictions or local traffic regulations) — vehicles carrying dangerous goods must also comply with supplementary signage and the requirements set out in ADR and the regulations of the Swedish Transport Agency.
Tips for Drivers
- If you drive a vehicle that must be marked with an orange plate, plan your route in advance so you can follow the indicated directions without sudden lane changes.
- Change lanes well before the junction or exit so you end up in the correct lane for the required direction; sudden maneuvers can be especially dangerous when carrying dangerous goods.
- Do not rely solely on GPS if it shows a different route than the signs — on-site road signs and mandatory signs take precedence over navigation instructions.
- Be extra attentive in industrial areas, ports, or tunnel entrances where the sign often appears; follow the signage carefully and check for any supplementary prohibitions.
Common Mistakes
- Believing that the sign applies to all vehicles — it only applies to vehicles subject to the orange plate requirement.
- Confusing the sign with a prohibition sign (many incorrectly think it forbids other directions for all vehicles).
- Misunderstanding which vehicles are included — for example, a truck carrying dangerous goods and its trailer/tank combination may be covered, so check whether your transport requires an orange plate.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Mandatory Driving Direction for Vehicles Carrying Dangerous Goods
What does this sign mean?
- A Vehicles carrying dangerous goods that require an orange placard must follow the driving direction indicated by the arrow.
- B All vehicles are prohibited from passing this sign.
- C The sign prohibits dangerous goods from using the road altogether.
- D The sign indicates a recommended evacuation route for all vehicles.
Exam Tip
In theory exam questions you are often tested on who the sign applies to — the correct answer is that it is binding only for vehicles subject to the orange plate requirement. A common trap is to choose 'applies to all vehicles' or to confuse this sign with general mandatory signs.
Did You Know?
Sign D12 is particularly common at entrances to tunnels, ports and industrial tracks where the aim is to direct transports of dangerous goods away from sensitive areas or onto safe routes. It exists to meet both traffic regulations and the requirements in ADR concerning safe routes for dangerous goods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this sign apply to all vehicles?
No. The sign applies only to vehicles carrying dangerous goods that, according to the regulations, must be marked with an orange plate. Ordinary passenger cars and other vehicles are not covered.
How do I know if my vehicle is subject to the orange-plate requirement?
If you are transporting substances classified as dangerous under ADR and the quantity/type requires an orange plate under the transport rules, then you are subject to it. Ask your employer or check the transport documents if you are unsure.
What should I do if the GPS suggests a different route than the sign shows?
Always follow the local road signage on site. The sign is binding for your vehicle if you are subject to the orange-plate requirement, and you should find a safe alternative route that complies with the signage.
Are emergency vehicles and police exempt from the sign?
In emergency situations, emergency vehicles may act contrary to certain traffic rules, but in normal circumstances the sign applies. If police or rescue services are directing traffic, follow their instructions.
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