Unusual Road Signs And What They Mean

There are hundreds of different road signs in the UK. While most drivers are familiar with the standard and self-explanatory ones, there are a few signs that are less recognisable. Some are rare enough that you may never encounter them!

In this article, we’ll look at some road signs that are less common or frequently misunderstood, and find out what they mean.

Unusual warning signs

Triangular road signs have the task of warning road users about an upcoming hazard, an unusual road feature, or a potential distraction. They are sometimes accompanied by supplementary plates giving further details.

Here are some of the less-common triangle signs you might encounter:

Low-Flying Aircraft (diagram 558)

Depicting an aeroplane at what appears to be an unhealthy angle, this sign isn’t a warning to expect an imminent air disaster - it’s telling drivers that low-flying aircraft may cause excessive noise and prove to be a distraction. A similar sign exists for low-flying helicopters.

Level Crossing (diagram 770)

This sign is sometimes misunderstood, because the symbol looks like a picket fence. It actually indicates that there is a level crossing ahead, with a barrier or gate. For level crossings without barriers, signs with a train symbol are used instead.

Give Way Ahead (diagram 501)

This inverted triangle sign can baffle drivers as it has no image at all. It indicates that you’re approaching a junction (which may be hidden) and that there’s a Give Way or Stop line up ahead. It should be accompanied by a supplementary plate stating the distance (in yards) from the stopping line. Drivers can then reduce speed in preparation.

Supplemented Warning (diagram 562)

An exclamation mark on a sign is obviously a warning, but this sign includes no further details. Thankfully, it’s always accompanied by a supplementary plate with extra information, such as “hidden dip”.

Other unusual triangular signs include warnings of migratory toad crossings, slow-moving military vehicles, and electric overhead cables (this one must have a plate indicating the maximum safe height for a vehicle to pass beneath).

Uncommon regulatory road signs

Regulatory road signs are usually circular in shape (except for the octagonal STOP sign), and give orders that drivers must follow. Blue circles typically give positive instructions, such as “Keep left”, while a white circle with a red border prohibits road users from certain actions.

Here are some regulatory signs whose meaning may be unfamiliar.

No Motorised Vehicles (diagram 619)

Sometimes jokingly referred to as the “low-flying motorcycles” sign, this actually prohibits all motor vehicles from entering a certain area. (This, we assume, would include flying motorcycles.)

No Explosives (diagram 622.8)

If you see this sign, and your vehicle is full of explosives or other dangerous goods, then you must not proceed. Frequently seen around military bases, this sign is not especially relevant to most of the general public!

Minimum Speed Limit (diagram 672)

Unlike normal speed limit signs, which prohibit you from exceeding a certain speed, these blue signs state the minimum speed limit. On this stretch of road, you must travel faster than the specified speed (as long as it is safe to do so). These signs are used to maintain traffic flow and prevent congestion. When the zone ends, you’ll see the same sign with a red line through it.

Pedal Cycles, Horse-Drawn Vehicles & Pedestrians Only (diagram 956.2)

This sign is one that we here at Start Safety have never seen in the wild. It does what it says on the tin, stating that only the specified categories of road user may use this route (typically a footpath). You might also see a circular sign prohibiting horse-drawn vehicles, or a triangular sign warning that horse-drawn vehicles are likely to be on the road. 

Other unusual regulatory signs include an empty red-bordered circle (“No vehicles except pedal cycles being pushed by hand”), and very specific signs prohibiting track-laying vehicles (such as bulldozers and agricultural tractors).

Need help choosing road signs?

We hope you enjoyed our lighthearted look at the world of unusual signage. Whether you’re interested in common road signs or you need something more niche, Start Safety can help.

We offer a huge range of road signs (including customisable options) as well as expert advice on finding the right one for your needs. Browse our collection or speak to our friendly sales team.