Usually, this type of sign is a red triangle pointing upwards, with a symbol or words on a white background. These warn you of a hazard you might not otherwise be able to recognise in time; for example, a bend, hill or hump bridge. The sign will make clear what the hazard is. You must decide what to do about it.

Narrowing roads

These signs tell you from which side the road is narrowing (sometimes both sides), and should warn you against overtaking until you’ve had a chance to assess the hazard.

Children

The warning here is: watch out for children, especially at school start and finish times. Plates may be used with the sign to give extra information, such as ‘School’, ‘Playground’ or ‘Patrol’. As well as children, look out for schoolcrossing patrols and obey their signals.

Low bridge sign

Even if you’re not in a high vehicle, be aware that an oncoming vehicle might have to use the centre of the road to make use of any extra headroom there.

Junctions

These tell you what type of junction is ahead: T-junction, crossroads, roundabout, staggered junction and so on. The priority through the junction is indicated by the broader line.

Sharp change of direction

Chevrons or roadside posts with reflectors may be used where

the road changes direction sharply enough to create a hazard
to reinforce a warning sign on a particularly sharp bend.

Other hazards

If there’s no special sign for a particular hazard, a general hazard warning sign is used: a red triangle with an exclamation mark on a white background. There’ll be a plate underneath it telling you what the hazard is – for example, a hidden dip.

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