The most unusual road signs in the UK explained
Our car expert explains what these unusual road signs mean and when you might encounter them
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What do these road signs mean?
Each year in the UK, new road signs, rules and guidelines are introduced to keep us safe on the roads.
Some of these signs are rarer and more unusual than others, so it’s understandable if you’re not sure what they mean.
Older signs are sometimes updated with newer symbols, and occasionally, completely new signs appear that you might never have come across.
Brushing up on your unusual sign knowledge is a great way to ensure you’re safe in all driving scenarios.
Slow-moving military
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Seeing a military tank on a warning sign might make you a bit nervous – especially if you’ve never seen one before!
Sam Sheehan, our motoring editor here at cinch, said: “This unusual sign indicates exactly what it says on the tin – you might bump into a Challenger 3 tank!
“Specifically, it’s telling you that slow-moving military vehicles are likely to cross or be present on that stretch of road.
“It’s usually set temporarily in zones where the military is carrying out their operations, or permanently positioned near army barracks, and it warns motorists to take extra care as they navigate the area.”
Beware of migratory toads
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Travelling in the British countryside in early spring will mean there’s a chance you’ll run into this fairytale-esque sign.
This warning lets drivers know that migratory toads could be crossing the road as they head towards their breeding ground.
If you do come across this sign, reduce your speed and keep an eye on the road in front of you as you pass. The frogs are likely to be more active in the evening and at night, so be extra cautious at those times.
Entering or exiting a Quiet Lane
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If you see a green sign showing a parent and child, a horse rider, a cyclist and a car, this means you’re entering a designated Quiet Lane. When the Quiet Lane comes to an end, the same sign with a red line through it indicates the end of the zone.
These zones are in place to preserve the peace in rural areas so people can enjoy outdoor activities and nature.
You’ll need to stick to a 35mph speed limit and respect your surroundings to prevent a possible speeding fine.
Electrified overhead cable ahead
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Although the lightning bolt on this sign might make you think more about storms than electricity, this sign shows that there are potential overhead electrical hazards above the road.
You might see this sign near railway or tram cables, and it’ll usually be paired with a plate informing you of the maximum safe height for vehicles.
You won’t need to worry if you’re in a car or on a motorbike, but tall vehicles need to ensure they can fit to avoid damage to their vehicle roof and the cables.
Vehicles may be parked on the verge
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You might see this blue, square-shaped sign if you’re driving along rural or narrow roads with limited off-street parking. This lets drivers know that parking is permitted on the verge – either the grassy bit next to the road or the pavement.
This sign lets you know that you’re unlikely to have the full width of the road while driving, and you’ll need to be prepared to stop for oncoming traffic.
Vehicles carrying explosives prohibited
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Don’t panic if you spot this sign that seemingly depicts an exploding car – it's just letting you know that no motors carrying explosives are allowed in that area.
The red-ringed traffic sign shows a car with fire on top and applies to drivers carrying dangerous loads like fireworks.
If you do find yourself heading towards this sign with explosives in your car, you’ll need to find an alternate route. )