Traffic lights warningUnited Kingdom
Traffic rules
United Kingdom
40. 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.
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How are traffic lights ahead warned of in the United Kingdom?
A red-bordered triangular warning sign with a vertical red-amber-green signal symbol warns of traffic lights ahead. Drivers must still follow the actual lights and their stop line.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code: Rules 175–178,196–199; failed lights and crossing signals
🔗 gov.uk • DfT Know Your Traffic Signs: warning signs (Great Britain)
Does a traffic-lights-ahead warning require an immediate stop in the United Kingdom?
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.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code: Rules 175–178,196–199; failed lights and crossing signals
🔗 gov.uk • DfT Know Your Traffic Signs: warning signs (Great Britain)
What should you check if the next traffic lights are difficult to see in the United Kingdom?
In Great Britain, approach so that you can stop before the line and watch for a concealed queue. If ordinary junction signals are not working, treat the junction as unmarked and proceed with great care. Do not confuse failure with a working flashing signal: flashing red requires stopping, while flashing amber at a pelican crossing has its own pedestrian-yielding rule.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code: Rules 175–178,196–199; failed lights and crossing signals
🔗 gov.uk • DfT Know Your Traffic Signs: warning signs (Great Britain)
