Warning of Traffic Jam
The sign indicates a section of road where there is a risk of traffic congestion.
When You See This Sign
When you see the 'Warning: queue' sign you should immediately adjust your speed and increase the distance to the vehicle in front. Be prepared for traffic to come to a standstill or brake heavily; watch behind you and signal well in time if you need to change lanes.
Rules & Regulations
- The purpose of the warning sign is to inform about the risk of traffic queues ahead; it is a warning sign and does not impose its own speed limits or prohibitions, but it requires you to adjust your driving to the conditions.
- You must be able to stop safely for stationary vehicles — adjust your speed so that a stop can be made without creating a risk for other road users.
- Keep a sufficient distance to the vehicle in front to avoid rear-end collisions if traffic stops abruptly.
- Follow any supplementary instructions (for example temporary speed limits, barriers, or signals from traffic controllers) that are often present at locations where the warning is posted.
Tips for Drivers
- Brake gently and early when you see the sign so that following drivers have time to react; sudden braking increases the risk of pile-ups.
- Increase the distance to the vehicle in front as soon as you see the sign — the two-second rule is the minimum; in heavy traffic or poor visibility you should increase this.
- Avoid unnecessary lane changes in an attempt to pass queues; such driving creates dangerous situations and can obstruct traffic.
- Pay extra attention to vehicles that suddenly change speed, traffic lights, work vehicles, or cars leaving or joining the queue — check your mirrors and signal well in advance.
Common Mistakes
- Believing that the sign itself imposes a speed limit — it only warns of a queue; a separate speed limit sign may be posted if required.
- Changing lanes immediately to pass a queue instead of adjusting speed and waiting — this is often dangerous and may be illegal depending on road markings.
- Underestimating the distance to the vehicle in front when traffic tightens — many beginners follow too closely and cannot stop in time.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Warning of Traffic Jam
What rule applies to this sign?
- A Warning for congestion — adjust your speed and keep sufficient distance, be prepared to stop.
- B Roadworks are in progress — follow the direction signs and instructions from staff.
- C Warning for a level crossing with barriers ahead.
- D It marks the start of a speed limit.
Exam Tip
On the theory test you may get a question that tries to trick you into thinking the sign implies a direct prohibition (for example, a no-passing rule or a speed limit). Remember: A34 is a warning sign — it requires you to adjust your driving but does not introduce any new prohibitions or speed limits by itself.
Did You Know?
A34 is often used before accident-prone locations such as roadworks, ferry terminals, and areas with heavy summer traffic to give early warning of queue formation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the sign mean I must stop?
No, the sign does not mean you must stop; it only warns of the risk of a queue. However, you must be prepared to be able to stop safely if the traffic ahead comes to a standstill.
Does the warning only apply to motorways?
No, the sign can be posted on any type of road where there is a risk of queues, such as at ferry terminals, at traffic lights, roadworks, or on main roads during rush hour.
May I use hazard warning lights when approaching a queue?
Hazard warning lights are normally used to warn others when you are stationary or moving very slowly due to a sudden obstruction. Use them sparingly and according to the traffic situation; normally signal with brake lights and, when changing lanes, indicate well in advance with your turn signals.
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