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Traffic lights warningAustralia

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Australia. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Australia

31. Traffic lights warning

A traffic lights warning is a warning sign that alerts drivers that traffic signals are located ahead. It is commonly used where the signals may be unexpected, difficult to see from a distance or located on a road where drivers need additional time to prepare to stop.

Drivers approaching a traffic lights warning should reduce speed when necessary, watch for the signals ahead and be prepared to stop if the traffic light changes or traffic is waiting at the intersection.

Traffic lights warning
Traffic-lights warning sign at the former Roe Highway and Great Eastern Highway intersection. (Bellevue, Western Australia)
Wikimedia.org • JarrahTree • CC BY
How are traffic lights ahead warned of in Australia?

A yellow warning sign showing a traffic-signal symbol can alert drivers to traffic lights ahead; the exact shape and application follow local sign standards. It warns of a potential need to stop, but does not replace the actual signals.

🔗 nsw.gov.au • Australia, NSW official road-user guidance — traffic-lights-warning

Does a traffic-lights-ahead warning require an immediate stop in Australia?

No. A warning sign is not an automatic STOP instruction and does not create a new numerical speed limit. Reduce speed when necessary, look for a queue or a concealed signal, and obey the traffic lights and any separate speed or stop signs.

🔗 nsw.gov.au • Australia, NSW official road-user guidance — traffic-lights-warning

What should you check if the next traffic lights are difficult to see in Australia?

Allow enough distance to stop before the marked line, watch for vehicles braking suddenly and be ready for a pedestrian or cyclist crossing. If the signals are out of order or flashing, follow the applicable local failure and priority rules rather than guessing from the warning sign.

🔗 nsw.gov.au • Australia, NSW official road-user guidance — traffic-lights-warning

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