Follow and stop behind the police vehicle when it stops
The sign indicates that you should follow the police vehicle and stop behind it
When You See This Sign
When you see the sign you should immediately follow the police vehicle and be prepared to stop behind it if it stops. Stop at a safe distance, await the police's instructions and only proceed when you have been clearly permitted to do so.
Rules & Regulations
- The sign's meaning is a clear order: follow the police vehicle and when it stops you must stop behind it and await further instructions.
- The instruction applies to all vehicles the sign is directed at; you must not overtake or pass the police vehicle while the instruction is in effect.
- You must keep a safe stopping distance behind the police vehicle so that you do not block the roadway or create a hazard for other traffic or the police operation.
- If a police officer or police vehicle gives different hand, light, or sound signals, you must follow the police's direct instructions even if they differ from what the sign indicates.
Tips for Drivers
- Reduce your speed well in advance when you see the sign and position yourself behind the police vehicle so that you can easily stop when it brakes.
- Keep enough distance so that you do not block driveways or intersections when you stop—remember that the police may need space to carry out the check.
- Pay attention to the police vehicle at all times: follow its brake and indicator lights and be prepared to stop rather than attempting to overtake.
- Remain calm and wait for direct instruction from police personnel before proceeding; do not start moving again until you have been clearly instructed to continue.
Common Mistakes
- Believing the sign is optional and attempting to overtake the police vehicle instead of following and stopping behind it.
- Stopping too far from the police vehicle or in a location that blocks intersections or private driveways.
- Ignoring the police's hand or light signals by assuming the sign only applies when emergency lights are used.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Follow and stop behind the police vehicle when it stops
What does this sign mean, indicating that you should follow a police vehicle and stop behind it?
- A You should follow the police vehicle and stop behind it when it stops.
- B You should pull over to the roadside and stop in front of the police vehicle.
- C The sign instructs you to ignore the police vehicle and continue.
- D It means you must immediately leave your vehicle and go up to the police officer.
Exam Tip
On the theory test you may get a question that checks whether the sign allows overtaking. The correct answer is that you must not overtake but should follow and stop behind the police vehicle—however, if the police give a different instruction you must follow that.
Did You Know?
Sign P10 is often used during checks, escorts, or when the police want to gather vehicles in an orderly sequence. It complements the police's direct signals and is particularly used in connection with road checks, operations, or temporary closures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the sign apply even if the police vehicle does not have flashing lights or a siren?
Yes. The sign itself is a direct instruction to follow the police vehicle and stop behind it when it stops, regardless of whether flashing lights or a siren are used.
May I overtake the police car if I am in a hurry?
No. You may not overtake when the sign requires you to follow and stop behind the police vehicle. Unauthorized overtaking can constitute dangerous driving behavior and is punishable.
Where exactly should I position my vehicle when I stop behind the police car?
Stop at a distance that is safe and that does not block junctions, driveways, or the police's working area. If you are unsure, stop so that it is clear you are not too close and wait for the police's instruction.
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