Loose chippings sign: what it means
The loose chippings sign warns of loose stones on the road ahead, often after resurfacing. There is a risk of skidding.
What does the loose chippings sign mean?
Know your traffic signs describes it as a risk of skidding, with a maximum speed of 20 mph advised on a road that has loose chippings. Stones thrown up by wheels can also chip windscreens.
Quick quiz
What does the sign at the top of this page mean?
- A sudden change in the road level ahead.
- Loose stones on the road ahead.
- There are no road markings for the distance shown.
Show answer
B. Loose stones on the road ahead. It warns of loose chippings and a risk of skidding (Know your traffic signs). Source: Know your traffic signs: signs for road works and temporary situations, GOV.UK; The Highway Code, rule 288, GOV.UK; Traffic sign images, Department for Transport, GOV.UK
Where will you see it?
On newly surfaced roads.
What should you do?
Slow down, keep well back from the vehicle in front and avoid harsh braking or steering.
What do people get wrong?
Driving at normal speed. Chippings can make you skid and are thrown up at other vehicles.
Common questions
What speed is advised?
Know your traffic signs says a maximum speed of 20 mph is advised on a road with loose chippings.
Why take care near cyclists?
Rule 288 says take extra care near cyclists and motorcyclists, as they can skid on grit and debris at road works.
Compare with
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Sources
Checked on 4 November 2026 against Know your traffic signs (signs for road works and temporary situations) and The Highway Code rule 288.
- Know your traffic signs: signs for road works and temporary situations, GOV.UK
- The Highway Code, rule 288, 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.