Emergency diversion route symbol: what it means
This symbol marks an emergency diversion route. Follow it when a closure sign directs you to use that route.
What does the emergency diversion route symbol mean?
The symbol helps you follow a diversion when an emergency closes a motorway or another main road. Know your traffic signs explains that a temporary sign may tell drivers which diversion to follow.
Black symbols on yellow patches can remain on direction signs permanently, including motorway signs. On other roads, separate yellow signs can also mark the route. Follow the symbol specified for your diversion.
Quick quiz
What does the sign at the top of this page mean?
- The symbol marks an emergency diversion route.
- Brown signs show the way to tourist attractions.
- The road layout ahead has changed.
Show answer
A. The symbol marks an emergency diversion route. The symbol marks a diversion route for use when an emergency closes a motorway or another main road (Know your traffic signs). Source: Know your traffic signs: direction signs on all-purpose roads, GOV.UK; Traffic sign images, Department for Transport, GOV.UK
Where will you see it?
On existing direction signs, including motorway signs. It can also appear on separate yellow signs on roads other than motorways.
What should you do?
When a temporary closure sign tells you to follow this symbol, use the signs carrying it to follow the diversion.
What do people get wrong?
Do not assume a road is closed just because you see the symbol. These route symbols may be displayed permanently.
Common questions
What does a black triangle on a yellow road sign mean?
It can mark an emergency diversion route. Know your traffic signs explains that these symbols help drivers follow a route when a motorway or another main road closes.
Should I always follow diversion symbols?
Follow the route indicated by the temporary closure sign. Know your traffic signs says the symbols themselves may remain on direction signs permanently.
Compare with
Diversion signA temporary diversion route starts here.
Primary route direction signGreen signs show primary routes.
Want to test someone else? Play a road-sign quiz with friends and family.
Sources
Checked on 5 November 2026 against Know your traffic signs (direction signs on all-purpose roads).
- Know your traffic signs: direction signs on all-purpose roads, GOV.UK
- Traffic sign images, Department for Transport, GOV.UK
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.