Falling rocks sign: what it means
The falling rocks sign warns of a risk of falling or fallen rocks on the road ahead. Be ready for rocks lying in the road, especially after bad weather.
What does the falling rocks sign mean?
Know your traffic signs describes it as a risk of falling or fallen rocks.
Quick quiz
What does the sign at the top of this page mean?
- The road surface ahead may be slippery.
- Rocks may fall or have fallen ahead.
- A hazard ahead; the plate says what it is.
Show answer
B. Rocks may fall or have fallen ahead. A risk of falling or fallen rocks ahead (Know your traffic signs). Source: Know your traffic signs: warning signs, GOV.UK; Traffic sign images, Department for Transport, GOV.UK
Where will you see it?
On roads under cliffs and steep cuttings, often in hilly areas and along the coast.
What should you do?
Slow down and look well ahead for rocks on the road, especially round bends. Do not stop under the cliff. If a rock blocks your lane, stop safely and be careful of oncoming traffic before you pass it.
What do people get wrong?
Thinking it only matters when rocks are falling. Fallen rocks can lie round a bend for hours.
Common questions
What should I do if there is a rock in the road?
Slow down, check for oncoming traffic and pass it only when it is safe, or wait.
Is the falling rocks sign the same as the slippery road sign?
No. The slippery road sign shows a car skidding. This one shows rocks falling.
Compare with
Slippery road signThe road surface ahead may be slippery.
Other danger signA hazard ahead; the plate says what it is.
Want to test someone else? Play a road-sign quiz with friends and family.
Sources
Checked on 3 November 2026 against Know your traffic signs (warning signs).
- Know your traffic signs: warning signs, 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.