Lane closed ahead signal: what it means
This motorway signal shows the lanes ahead with one closed. Here the right-hand lane of two closes. Move into the open lane in good time.
What does the lane closed ahead signal mean?
Know your traffic signs shows these as signals for various lane closures on carriageways with 4, 3 or 2 lanes. Signals at the side of the motorway apply to the whole carriageway.
Rule 257 says flashing amber lights warn of a hazard ahead: reduce your speed and be prepared for it.
Quick quiz
What does the sign at the top of this page mean?
- Lane closed: do not drive in it.
- An advised speed for the conditions, not a limit.
- A lane is closed ahead: move over in time.
Show answer
C. A lane is closed ahead: move over in time. It warns that a lane is closed ahead (Know your traffic signs). Source: Know your traffic signs: motorway signs, signals and road markings, GOV.UK; The Highway Code, rule 257, GOV.UK; Traffic sign images, Department for Transport, GOV.UK
Where will you see it?
On the central reservation, or at the side of motorways and some high-speed dual carriageways.
What should you do?
Slow down, check your mirrors and move into an open lane early. Merge in turn if traffic is moving very slowly.
What do people get wrong?
Waiting until the last moment to move across at high speed.
Common questions
What do the flashing amber lamps mean?
A hazard is ahead. Reduce your speed and be ready for it (rule 257).
Is this the same as a red X?
No. This signal warns of a closure ahead. A red X means the lane below is closed now.
Compare with
Red X signalLane closed: do not drive in it.
Temporary maximum speed advised signalAn advised speed for the conditions, not a limit.
Want to test someone else? Play a road-sign quiz with friends and family.
Sources
Checked on 4 November 2026 against Know your traffic signs (motorway signs, signals and road markings) and The Highway Code rule 257.
- Know your traffic signs: motorway signs, signals and road markings, GOV.UK
- The Highway Code, rule 257, 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.