Warning for Animals
The sign indicates a location or stretch of road where there is a particular risk of animals on or near the road.
When You See This Sign
When you see A19 you should immediately reduce speed and be extra alert to the road edges. Be prepared to stop and avoid sudden evasive maneuvers; animals you spot may move unpredictably.
Rules & Regulations
- The A19 warning sign indicates a particular risk of animals on or near the road — it is a warning sign, not a prohibition or a speed limit sign.
- The sign does not change right-of-way rules or the speed limit. You are required to adjust speed and driving style to the hazards in accordance with traffic rules.
- If animals appear you must be prepared to stop. Avoid dangerous evasive maneuvers that could harm other road users — brake controlledly as the primary action.
- In collisions with large wildlife or if there is personal injury or significant property damage, secure the scene, alert emergency services/police and report the incident according to applicable procedures.
Tips for Drivers
- Reduce speed well in advance and scan the road edges, especially at dawn, dusk and at night when animals are most active.
- Use high beam when it is safe to do so to detect animals early, but dip for oncoming traffic — early detection gives the best chance to react.
- Keep extra distance to the vehicle ahead so you can brake without causing a rear-end collision.
- If an animal suddenly runs onto the road: brake steadily and maintain your course if possible. Do not swerve sharply — this is often more dangerous than a controlled braking.
Common Mistakes
- Believing the sign warns only of wild animals. A19 can be used where both wild and domestic animals may occur.
- Assuming the sign implies a fixed speed limit or changes right-of-way rules.
- Reacting reflexively by swerving and thereby risking collision with oncoming traffic or barriers instead of braking in a controlled manner.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Warning for Animals
What does this sign mean?
- A Risk of animals on or near the road — be prepared for animals that may appear.
- B This is a special feeding spot for livestock where you must stop.
- C Only domesticated animals are allowed to roam — wildlife is prohibited.
- D Road where hunting is permitted — increased risk of hunters on the roadway.
Exam Tip
On the theory test, a question may try to trick you into thinking the sign means you must give way or that it imposes a speed limit. The correct answer is that it is a warning sign — you must adjust your speed and be prepared to stop, but no new formal rights or limits are introduced.
Did You Know?
A19 is often used at forest edges, grazing areas and in reindeer grazing regions in the north; sometimes a supplementary sign is placed under it indicating a length or distance (e.g. "next 2 km").
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the sign only apply at night?
No. The sign applies at all times as a warning of the risk of animals on or near the road, but the risk is often greater at dawn, dusk and night.
Do I have to stop immediately when I see the sign?
No, you do not need to stop immediately, but you should reduce speed and be prepared to stop if animals are visible or moving toward the road.
Am I allowed to make a sharp evasive maneuver to avoid an animal?
No. Sharp evasive maneuvers that endanger other road users are not permitted. Brake in a controlled way and keep your course if possible.
What should I do if I hit an animal?
Secure the accident site, warn other road users and check for injuries. For collisions with large wildlife or if there are personal injuries, contact the police and follow instructions regarding insurance reporting.
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