Europe's most misunderstood road signs
- Road surfacing experts at Instarmac have offered a little pre-trip training course
Planning on driving in Europe this summer? Whether you're blitzing across borders in your car or picking up a rental after arriving at an airport, it's crucial to be aware of what to expect when navigating the road ahead.
Over half of Brits have driven overseas at some point in their lives, but with British drivers three times more likely to get into road accidents abroad, understanding road signs is one of the first steps to ensuring drivers and passengers remain safe.
Not only is this knowledge crucial for preventing accidents, it helps to navigate unfamiliar roads, avoid fines, and can even lead to pleasant surprises, such as a nearby spot with stunning scenery.
Luckily, road surfacing experts at Instarmac are on hand for a little pre-trip refresher course.
From animal warnings to nearby rest stops, here are twelve of some of the most commonly misunderstood road signs in Europe.
Beware! Frogs
This German warning sign alerts drivers to the seasonal migration of amphibians in the local area - no need to fear a surprise toad ambush.
These creatures often cross the road in large numbers, especially during spring, there it's a good idea to reduce speed and stay alert.
Beware! Frogs: This German warning sign alerts drivers to the seasonal migration of amphibians in the local area
Alternate route: A line-free sign marks the beginning of a suggested detour, while the one with three diagonal lines signals the end of that alternate route
Snow chains required:
Alternate route: Start and End
No one enjoys sitting in traffic, and these signs can help drivers steer clear of congestion.
A line-free sign marks the beginning of a suggested detour, while the one with three diagonal lines signals the end of that alternate route.
They're not warnings - just helpful directions to keep drivers moving.
Snow chains required
This sign might look a tad dramatic, but it simply means snow chains (also called tyre chains) are mandatory on certain roads during winter.
Chains improve traction on icy or snowy surfaces, helping prevent dangerous loss of control.
Beware! Polar Bear
Beware! Polar bear: This Norwegian road sign means business, as it marks areas where polar bears may cross
Beware! Dock: Found in Spain and some other coastal regions, this sign warns of nearby docks
Beware! Beautiful scenery: Used in Spain and several EU countries, the sign marks locations with notable natural beauty
This Norwegian road sign means business, as it marks areas where polar bears may cross.
Unlike frog warnings, this one does carry real danger. Drive cautiously, stay alert, and maybe reconsider pulling over for that bathroom break.
Beware! Dock
Found in Spain and some other coastal regions, this sign warns of nearby docks.
It's a reminder to stay aware of your surroundings - especially if you're unfamiliar with the area.
Beware! Beautiful scenery
This sign is a pleasant surprise for road trippers hoping to capture a crowd-free shot of a picturesque view.
Used in Spain and several EU countries, the sign marks locations with notable natural beauty.
If safe to do so, consider pulling over and enjoying the view.
Right of way
Right of way: A vital sign seen across Europe, this indicates that you currently have the right of way
Rest stop ahead: When you see this sign, a rest stop is nearby - perfect if you need a break, stretch, or facilities
Low beams ahead: This sign informs drivers that headlights must be switched to low beam in the upcoming area
A vital sign seen across Europe, this indicates that you currently have the right of way.
Understanding and recognising this symbol can help prevent misunderstandings - and collisions - on unfamiliar roads.
Rest stop ahead
When you see this sign, a rest stop is nearby - perfect if you need a break, stretch, or facilities.
Think of it as the EU's version of a motorway service station.
Low beams ahead
This sign informs drivers that headlights must be switched to low beam in the upcoming area.
It's essential for safety and avoiding penalties - high beams can blind oncoming drivers, increasing the risk of accidents.
Beware! Moose
Beware! Moose: Moose are enormous - up to 8 feet tall and 700 kg - and collisions with them can be devastating. If you see this sign, slow down and stay vigilant
Railway crossing nearby: A common sight in many parts of Europe, this sign warns of an upcoming railway crossing
Steep descent ahead: This French road sign indicates a steep downhill slope, often marked with a percentage (like 10%)
Many foreign visitors might underestimate this warning sign, but it's one to take seriously.
Moose are enormous - up to 8 feet tall and 700 kg - and collisions with them can be devastating. If you see this sign, slow down and stay vigilant.
Railway crossing nearby
A common sight in many parts of Europe, this sign warns of an upcoming railway crossing.
Always approach with caution, identify the tracks in advance, and never attempt to beat a closing barrier. A delay is better than a disaster.
Steep descent ahead!
This French road sign indicates a steep downhill slope, often marked with a percentage (like 10%).
That number refers to the gradient - not your car's speed, weight, or any fine.
Be prepared to shift into a lower gear and brake gradually.
