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Swedish Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Prepare for fewer lanes ahead with the Reduction in Number of Lanes sign (F17).

F17 - Reduction in Number of Lanes Swedish road sign meaning

The F17 Reduction in Number of Lanes sign is a warning that one or more lanes will soon end, requiring traffic to merge into fewer lanes. This sign is often placed in advance to give you ample time to prepare for the lane change, which is crucial for smooth and safe traffic flow. When you see this sign, be ready to adjust your speed, check your mirrors and blind spots diligently, and cooperate with other drivers to merge safely, avoiding sudden braking or aggressive maneuvers. Understanding this sign is vital for navigating congested roads and passing your theory test.

About the F17 - Reduction in Number of Lanes road sign

Learn the key details of the F17 - Reduction in Number of Lanes road sign, including its function, what it communicates to drivers, and how it applies in real traffic situations in Sweden. Use this overview to understand the sign clearly and recognise it confidently during the Swedish driving theory exam.

Definition of F17

A Reduction in Number of Lanes sign warns that one or more lanes will end, requiring traffic to merge. The sign is adapted to the local road layout and may be placed as advance information so drivers can prepare early. Its purpose is to reduce conflict by encouraging timely lane choice and cooperative merging. When lanes reduce, you must be ready for slower traffic, tighter gaps, and increased mirror and shoulder checks.

Meaning of F17

This sign indicates that the number of lanes decreases, and may be used in advance.

Allowed actions for F17

Merge early when safe and practicalCooperate with other drivers using proper spacingAdjust speed smoothly to create safe merging gaps

Prohibited actions for F17

Racing to the front to force a merge at the last momentBlocking merging traffic intentionallyChanging lanes without mirror and blind-spot checks

F17 - Reduction in Number of Lanes road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the F17 - Reduction in Number of Lanes road sign. Learn how the sign works, what rules it represents, and how it affects real driving situations. This FAQ strengthens your understanding and supports accurate decision making for the Swedish driving theory exam in Sweden.

What does the F17 Reduction in Number of Lanes sign mean for drivers?

The F17 sign warns you that the number of available lanes is decreasing. You must be prepared to merge into a lane with fewer options, often requiring you to change lanes. This is to ensure a smooth transition and prevent conflicts.

What should I do when I see the F17 Reduction in Number of Lanes sign?

When you see the F17 sign, start preparing to merge early. Check your mirrors and blind spots for other vehicles. Adjust your speed smoothly to create a safe gap and merge into the continuing lane when it's safe to do so. Cooperate with other drivers.

What are common mistakes or exam traps related to the F17 sign?

A common trap is waiting until the very last moment to merge, which can lead to sudden braking or forcing your way into traffic. Another mistake is not checking mirrors and blind spots adequately before merging. Early preparation and cooperation are key for both safety and the theory exam.

Is it always mandatory to change lanes when I see the F17 sign?

The F17 sign indicates that lanes are ending, so yes, you will typically need to change lanes to follow the continuing traffic flow. However, the exact action depends on the specific road layout and signage at the point of merging. The main point is to merge safely and cooperatively.

What does 'early preparation' mean in relation to the F17 sign?

Early preparation means recognizing the F17 sign well in advance and starting to plan your merge. This includes observing traffic, positioning your vehicle correctly, and making a smooth, unhurried lane change as soon as a safe gap appears, rather than racing to the front.

F17 - Reduction in Number of Lanes road sign image

A clear reference image of the F17 - Reduction in Number of Lanes road sign used in Sweden.

F17 - Reduction in Number of Lanes road sign

Other names for the F17 - Reduction in Number of Lanes

The F17 - Reduction in Number of Lanes road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Lanes merge signLane drop signRoad narrows by lanesLane reduction ahead

Localisation Signs (F) road sign category

The F17 - Reduction in Number of Lanes road sign is part of the Localisation Signs (F) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

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