Reduce Speed
The sign indicates that you should reduce your speed
When You See This Sign
When you see the police signal 'Reduce speed' you should immediately slow down to a safe level and adjust your driving to the conditions. Be prepared to stop or follow further instructions from the police.
Rules & Regulations
- The sign is an official police signal (code P5) and must be obeyed when shown by a police officer.
- You must immediately reduce your speed to a safe level and adjust your speed based on visibility, road conditions, and traffic volume.
- Slow down so that you can stop if the police give an additional stop signal or further instructions.
- Failure to follow police signals may result in fines or other legal consequences.
Tips for Drivers
- Ease off the accelerator and brake gently to avoid sudden braking that can cause rear-end collisions.
- Check your mirrors and increase the distance to the vehicle in front when the signal is shown.
- Be attentive to subsequent police signals or verbal instructions — P5 may be followed by a stop or directions.
- Reduce your speed even more in poor visibility or slippery road conditions, even if the police do not specify an exact number.
Common Mistakes
- Believing the signal is only a recommendation — it is an order from the police and must be followed.
- Braking sharply instead of smoothly and controlled, which increases the risk of being rear-ended.
- Interpreting the signal as a fixed, numeric speed limit — P5 does not indicate a specific speed.
Exam Tip
On the theory test, you may be tempted to answer that P5 indicates an exact speed or that you must always stop. The correct answer is that you should reduce your speed and be prepared to stop; no specific number is given unless the police or an additional signal indicates one.
Did You Know?
This sign is part of the standardized police signals used in Sweden to quickly and clearly give road users instructions at accidents, road checks, escorts and other temporary events. The signals are coded to be recognizable even at a distance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to stop immediately when I see 'Reduce speed'?
Not automatically, but you must immediately reduce your speed to a safe level and be prepared to stop if the police later show a stop signal or give another instruction.
Who is allowed to use this signal?
It is a police signal and applies when it is clearly shown by an on-duty police officer. Always follow the police's instructions when they use the signal.
Does the signal mean a new speed limit has been introduced?
No, the signal does not indicate a numeric speed. Instead, you should choose an appropriate and safe speed based on traffic and road conditions.
What happens if I ignore the signal?
Failing to follow police signals is a traffic offense and can lead to fines or other legal actions. If you missed the signal, you should immediately adjust your speed as soon as you see and understand the instruction.
Practice more in the app
Study Swedish road signs and driving theory in English. 314 signs with rules, tips and quizzes.