Distance to Level Crossing
The signs indicate the distance to a level crossing in thirds. The sign with three markings is placed outside built-up areas, installed below any of the signs A35, A36, or A37.
When You See This Sign
When you see A38 you should understand that you are approaching a level crossing and begin adjusting your speed so you can stop if necessary. Check which primary sign the A38 is mounted under and watch out for barriers, light signals, and trains.
Rules & Regulations
- The sign's markings show the distance to a level crossing in thirds: three markings = farthest from the crossing, two = halfway, one = closest to the crossing.
- A38 is a warning sign and is normally mounted beneath a primary level crossing sign (A35, A36 or A37); the sign itself does not change the right-of-way rules at the crossing.
- When the sign is present the driver should begin preparing to slow down and be ready to stop if met by a train, barriers, or red lights at the crossing.
- The signs are directional and apply to the lane/direction they are posted for; act consistently and do not increase speed between the markings.
Tips for Drivers
- Learn to read the countdown: when you see two markings start reducing speed, and at one marking be prepared to stop if necessary.
- Also look at which primary sign (A35/A36/A37) is mounted above; it tells you whether the crossing has barriers and influences how you should act.
- Avoid overtaking and other maneuvers that could obstruct visibility or make stopping harder in the stretch between the markings and the crossing.
- Brake smoothly and in good time — the sign gives you the opportunity to plan ahead instead of braking hard at the last moment.
Common Mistakes
- Believing that more markings mean the crossing is closer (it's the opposite: three markings = farthest).
- Ignoring that the sign is mounted beneath a primary sign and thus missing information about what type of level crossing it is (with or without barriers).
- Relying on the sign alone and not checking for signals, barriers, or trains when approaching the crossing.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Distance to Level Crossing
What do these markings next to a warning sign for a level crossing indicate?
- A Distance to the level crossing in thirds — the number of markings indicates how far it is to the crossing.
- B Number of tracks at the level crossing.
- C The number of barriers present at the crossing.
- D Maximum speed in meters per hour up to the crossing.
Exam Tip
On the theory test they may ask what three markings mean — remember: three = farthest, one = closest; do not assume that more markings mean nearer.
Did You Know?
Did you know that A38 is used in a series (three–two–one markings) to provide a clear countdown to the level crossing and that the sign with three markings is normally placed outside densely populated areas?
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the three, two and one markings on the sign mean?
They show the distance to the level crossing in thirds: three markings mean you are farthest from the crossing, two mean you are halfway, and one means the crossing is very close. They function as a countdown so you can prepare.
Does the sign mean I always have to stop?
No, A38 is a warning sign and does not automatically require a stop. You should be prepared to stop if there are signals, barriers, or if visibility/conditions require it.
Is the sign always mounted under another sign?
Yes, A38 is normally mounted under primary level crossing signs (A35, A36 or A37) to provide supplementary information about distance. If the primary sign is missing the sign can be harder to interpret but should still be treated as a warning of a level crossing.
How long is a 'third' in reality?
There is no fixed number of meters for each third that applies everywhere; distances can vary depending on road type and location. In driving theory you do not need to know exact meters, only that the markings provide a stepwise countdown to the crossing.
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