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LGV study notes

Traffic Signs

Signs that matter most to large vehicles — weight, height and width limits, and route signs.

What this topic covers

Signs that matter most to large vehicles — weight, height and width limits, and route signs. The full LGV & HGV Theory Test & Toolkit app contains 80 questions on this topic.

In the app's syllabus: Road signs, Speed limits, Regulations.

Worked examples

Here are a few practice questions from this topic. Try answering each before reading the explanation.

Example 1

You're driving a lorry weighing more than 7.5 tonnes on a motorway. What does this sign mean?

A. Maximum speed 40 mph
B. Maximum speed 50 mph
C. Maximum speed 60 mph ✓ correct
D. Maximum speed 70 mph

Explanation: The maximum speed for lorries over 7.5 tonnes maximum authorised mass on a motorway is 60 mph. However, it may not always be appropriate or possible to drive at this speed, because of the weather, volume of traffic and other factors.

Example 2

What does this sign mean?

A. Uneven road surface
B. Bridge over the road
C. Road ahead ends
D. Water across the road ✓ correct

Explanation: This sign is found where a shallow stream crosses the road. Heavy rainfall could increase the flow of water. If the water looks too deep or the stream has swelled over a large distance, stop and find another route.

Example 3

What does this sign mean?

A. Road flooded
B. Risk of punctures
C. Loose chippings ✓ correct
D. Uneven surface

Explanation: This is a warning sign to indicate loose chippings ahead. The sign is usually accompanied by an advisory speed limit. Vehicles travelling too fast for the conditions can throw up chippings or stones. Avoid causing damage to paintwork and windscreens by keeping your speed down.

Example 4

You're driving a lorry that's carrying a heavy load. What should you be prepared to do when you see this sign ahead?

A. Brake to a lower speed
B. Change to a higher gear
C. Stop to check your load
D. Change to a lower gear ✓ correct

Explanation: A heavy vehicle will lose speed when climbing a steep hill. Changing to a lower gear will help you to maintain an appropriate speed.

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