Crossroads sign: what it means
The crossroads sign warns that a crossroads is ahead. The broader line on the sign shows which road has priority through the junction.
What it means
Triangles are warning signs: they tell you about a hazard ahead rather than giving an order. Slow down and get ready to give way or stop as the junction requires.
On junction warning signs, the priority route through the junction is shown by the broader line (Know your traffic signs).
Quick quiz
What does the broader line on a junction warning sign show?
- The road with priority
- A one-way road
- A dual carriageway
Show answer
A. The road with priority. On junction warning signs, the priority route is shown by the broader line. Source: The Highway Code, rule 170, GOV.UK; Know your traffic signs: warning signs, GOV.UK; The Highway Code: traffic signs, GOV.UK; Traffic sign images, Department for Transport, GOV.UK
Where you see it
On the approach to a crossroads. A plate underneath may show the distance to it.
A common mistake
Assuming you have priority because your road looks bigger. Check the sign’s broader line and any give way or stop markings, and watch for traffic turning across you (rule 170).
Compare with
T-junction signYour road ends at a T-junction ahead.
Stop signStop completely at the line, then give way.
Want to test someone else? Play a road-sign quiz with friends and family.
Sources
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Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Traffic sign images are Crown copyright, from the Department for Transport. Sources and image credits.