When driving on the motorway, you have to process a lot of information at the same time. Think of speed limit signs, matrix signs, directional signs and red crosses above the lanes. Especially if you have recently passed your driving test, it can be challenging to recognise all these signals quickly and apply them correctly.
That is why, when preparing for your theory test, it is important not only to know what traffic signs look like, but also to understand what they mean and what you need to do in the traffic situation you are in.
In this blog, we explain the most important traffic signs and signals you may encounter on Dutch motorways.
The Speed Limit on the Motorway
The same speed limit does not apply everywhere or at all times on the motorway. On many motorways, the maximum speed is 100 km/h between 06:00 and 19:00. Outside these hours, a higher speed limit may apply on certain stretches of road. The maximum speed can be as high as 130 km/h, but a lower limit applies in many places.
Therefore, always pay close attention to the traffic signs along and above the road. Roadworks, an accident or another temporary situation can also cause the speed limit to change.
If you see a sign indicating a lower speed limit, you must follow the new speed limit.
Matrix Signs Above the Lane
On many motorways, electronic signs are positioned above or next to the lanes. These are known as matrix signs. They can, for example, indicate a speed limit or warn you about a particular traffic situation.
A matrix sign can temporarily adjust the speed limit to the conditions on the road. If you see a lower speed limit than the one you saw earlier on your route, reduce your speed in good time.
A matrix sign can also display a red cross. In that case, the sign has an important meaning for the lane above which the cross is displayed.
What Does a Red Cross Mean?
A red cross above a lane means that you are not allowed to use that lane. The lane may be closed because of an accident, roadworks or another traffic situation.
Even if nothing appears to be happening and the lane looks empty, you must not drive underneath a red cross.
If you see a red cross above your lane, leave the lane as soon as it is safe to do so and move into a lane that is available. Make sure to check your mirrors carefully and take other traffic into account.
Pay Attention During Roadworks
During roadworks, the normal traffic situation can temporarily change. Lanes may become narrower or be closed, and a lower speed limit may apply.
You may also encounter temporary traffic signs, barriers and yellow road markings during roadworks. These indicate that the traffic situation is different from what you are used to.
Do you often drive the same route? Do not rely solely on what you normally encounter. Always pay attention to the current traffic signs, matrix signs and road markings.
Signs at an Exit
On the motorway, an upcoming exit is usually indicated well in advance. Directional signs show, among other things, place names and road numbers, so you can see which direction you need to follow.
Do you need to leave the motorway? Check the signs in good time and make sure you can move calmly and safely into the correct lane.
Missing an exit is frustrating, but crossing several lanes at the last moment is not a safe solution. If you can no longer reach the exit safely, continue driving and adjust your route afterwards.
Changing Lanes on the Motorway
A traffic sign or directional sign may indicate which direction you need to follow, but that does not mean you can change lanes without checking whether it is safe to do so.
Always check your mirrors carefully and make sure there is enough space around you. Start moving into the correct lane in good time, especially when approaching an exit.
Traffic can approach quickly on the motorway. Changing lanes at the last moment can therefore create dangerous situations. By looking ahead and acting in good time, you can stay more in control of the traffic situation.
Traffic Signs During Your Theory Test
During the theory test, it is not only about recognising a traffic sign. You must also be able to determine what the sign means in the situation shown to you.
A useful way to practise traffic signs is to ask yourself three questions each time:
What do I see?
What does it mean?
What do I need to do?
Pay attention to the shape and image on the traffic sign, as well as any supplementary signs, road markings and other signals. Then consider the complete traffic situation.
This way, you are not simply memorising traffic signs. You are also learning how to apply their meaning in a practical traffic situation.
Common Mistakes on the Motorway
Various situations can cause confusion when driving on the motorway. Some common mistakes include:
- Moving into the correct lane for an exit too late.
- Ignoring a red cross because the lane appears to be empty.
- Focusing only on permanent traffic signs and overlooking a matrix sign.
- Assuming that a familiar route will always remain the same.
- Changing lanes without checking properly.
- Only reacting at the last moment when the traffic situation changes.
By looking ahead and reading traffic signs and signals in good time, you can avoid many of these situations.
Learning Traffic Signs for Your Theory Test
Learning traffic signs is about more than simply memorising the meaning of a sign. You also need to understand what a sign means for your own behaviour as a driver.
This is important during your theory test, but of course also when you start driving independently. On the motorway in particular, it is important to be able to recognise different types of information at the same time and respond in good time.
Would you like to practise traffic signs, traffic rules and traffic situations? With NuTheorie, you can prepare for your CBR theory test in a focused way.
Know the sign, understand the situation and know what to do.
