Traffic signals are crucial for maintaining order and safety at intersections and crossings, especially on roads with moderate speed limits. This section will help you understand the different types of signals, including lights and acoustic signals, and how to react to them correctly. Mastering these signs is essential for both passing your theory exam and ensuring safe, lawful driving in everyday traffic situations.
An explanation of how Traffic Signals (L) road signs apply in real traffic situations in Sweden. Learn where these signs are typically placed, what drivers are expected to do when they appear, and how correct reactions help you stay safe, avoid fines, and succeed in your Swedish driving theory exam.
You will encounter traffic signals at almost every intersection, junction, and pedestrian crossing you approach. They are the primary method of controlling traffic flow and preventing collisions. Drivers must be prepared to obey steady red lights (stop), green lights (proceed if safe), and amber lights (prepare to stop unless unsafe to do so). Special signals, like red crosses over lanes and green arrows, dictate which lanes are open or closed and the permitted movements. Flashing amber signals often indicate a need for extra caution or a specific instruction, while flashing red lights typically mean a complete stop is required before proceeding. These signals are used in both busy urban environments and quieter rural areas to manage traffic effectively.
An overview of the key learning outcomes when studying the Traffic Signals (L) road sign category. Understand the main concepts, sign meanings, and traffic situations covered here so you can recognise patterns, answer theory questions more confidently, and build a solid foundation for safe driving in Sweden.
Browse every road sign in the Traffic Signals (L) category. Each sign includes a clear meaning, purpose, and examples of how it is used in Sweden, helping you build strong recognition skills and a detailed understanding of this group of Swedish traffic signs.
SIG5 Flashing Amber Signal: Slow Down and Proceed with Caution
Understand the SIG7 Green Acoustic Signal for Safe Crossing
Prepare to stop: The SIG8 'S' signal requires you to halt.
SIG10 Vertical Bar Signal: Your signal to proceed when clear.
What the SIG11 Horizontal Bar Signal means: You MUST stop.
The Red Cross traffic sign (SIG12) means your lane is closed – act immediately!
The Green Arrow Sign: Your Lane is Open and Ready for Traffic!
What the SIG16 Red Flashing Light Traffic Sign means: You must stop!
Steady Red Light (SIG17) Means the Road is Completely Closed
The Red and Amber Signal: Stop Now, but Green is Coming Soon!
The Amber Signal: Know When to Stop and When to Safely Proceed
Stop and listen: The SIG6 Red Acoustic Signal means do not cross.
Prepare for Go: What the Horizontal Bar Signal Means
Follow the Amber Arrow: You Must Change Lane!
This Red Flashing Light Means You Must Stop Immediately.
When you see a flashing amber light (SIG18), proceed with extreme caution.
Clear answers to common questions about the Traffic Signals (L) road sign category. Use this FAQ to review tricky rules, understand how these signs appear in exam scenarios, and remove confusion that often leads to mistakes in the Swedish driving theory exam in Sweden.
A steady red light means you must stop completely behind the stop line and wait for a green signal. A flashing red light generally indicates that you must come to a complete stop before proceeding, similar to a stop sign, and yield to any traffic or pedestrians that have the right-of-way. Always treat a flashing red signal as a mandatory stop.
An amber signal, whether steady or flashing, warns you that the signal is about to turn red. You should prepare to stop. If you are so close to the intersection that stopping safely is not possible, you may proceed with caution. However, the general rule is to stop if you can do so without causing a hazard.
These signals are typically found on multi-lane roads or approach lanes to bridges and tunnels. A red cross displayed over a lane means that lane is closed, and you must not enter it. A green arrow displayed over a lane indicates that the lane is open for traffic, and you may proceed in the direction indicated by the arrow.
Acoustic signals, like the green acoustic signal (fast pulse) or red acoustic signal (slow pulse), are designed to assist visually impaired pedestrians. The fast pulse typically signals that it is safe for pedestrians to cross, while the slow pulse indicates that the signal is red and crossing is not permitted. Drivers should be aware of pedestrians using these signals and ensure they give way.
If a traffic signal is malfunctioning or shows a steady red light with no green signal appearing, you must treat it as a stop sign. Come to a complete stop, check for cross-traffic and pedestrians, and proceed with caution when it is safe to do so. If there are other signs present, such as a 'signal malfunction' sign, follow their instructions.
