Oncoming Traffic Must Yield
The sign indicates that oncoming traffic must yield and you have the right of way.
When You See This Sign
When you see the sign you have priority over oncoming vehicles on the relevant stretch of road. Adjust your speed, check that oncoming traffic is actually letting you pass, and drive with usual caution - be prepared to stop if the situation requires it for safety.
Rules & Regulations
- Sign B7 means that oncoming traffic must yield to you - you have priority over vehicles coming from the opposite direction.
- The priority applies to all road users (cars, trucks, cyclists, moped class II, etc.) coming in the opposite direction on the section of road where the sign applies.
- The priority applies from the sign until you pass the place where it ends (for example end of narrow road, another traffic sign, or an ordinary priority junction) or until another traffic rule or traffic signal changes the priority.
- Despite having priority, you must adjust your speed and behavior so that no harm occurs - safety takes precedence over formal right of way.
Tips for Drivers
- Reduce speed in good time, check mirrors and visibility before using your priority - this makes it easier for oncoming traffic to assess the situation.
- Give a clear signal or eye contact if possible and necessary, but do not force a passage if it's tight; be prepared to stop for safety.
- Pay extra attention to cyclists and pedestrians coming the other way - they are also covered by the priority but may move differently than motor vehicles.
- In poor visibility (darkness, fog, curves) leave more space and be prepared that oncoming traffic may have difficulty determining who actually has priority.
Common Mistakes
- Thinking the sign means you must always drive faster or pass quickly - safety and courtesy take precedence over using your priority.
- Confusing the sign with 'you must give way' - B7 means the opposite: oncoming traffic must give way.
- Assuming the sign only applies to cars and not cyclists or moped riders; it applies to all oncoming traffic.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Oncoming Traffic Must Yield
What does this sign mean on a narrow street?
- A Oncoming traffic must give way — you have priority through the passage.
- B You must give way to oncoming traffic.
- C Both directions must slow down but neither has priority.
- D Parking prohibited in the marked zone.
Exam Tip
In the theory test you may be asked which party must give way when the sign is shown - answer that 'oncoming traffic must give way' (you have priority). Be prepared for questions that compare this sign with the one for 'you must give way' so you don't mix them up.
Did You Know?
The sign shows a larger white arrow pointing up and a smaller red arrow pointing down on a blue circle, visually indicating that you go first while oncoming traffic must yield. The sign is often used on narrow bridges, single-lane passages and at roadworks where traffic needs to be prioritized in one direction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the sign apply to cyclists and pedestrians as well?
Yes, the sign affects all oncoming traffic on the roadway, including cyclists and moped riders. Pedestrians on the sidewalk or at a crossing, however, have their own special rules and should be taken into account.
How long does the priority from the sign apply?
The priority applies from the sign until you reach a place where the priority ends (for example an end sign, another traffic sign, or an intersection with other priority rules). In practice it applies to the stretch of road where single-lane passages or a narrow road exist.
What do I do if the oncoming traffic still doesn't yield?
Slow down and be prepared to stop even if you have priority. Safety takes precedence over formal right of way - create space or let the oncoming traffic pass if necessary.
Can this sign be used temporarily at roadworks?
Yes, the sign is often used temporarily at roadworks to regulate priority in narrow passages. Always follow the temporary signs' instructions even if they differ from the regular road markings.
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