This SIG12 traffic sign, a prominent red cross, signals that the lane you are in, and sometimes the adjacent shoulder, is closed to all traffic. You must not use this lane or shoulder. This sign is crucial for managing traffic flow safely on multi-lane roads or motorways, especially during roadworks or incidents. Drivers seeing this sign must plan and execute a lane change to an open lane as soon as it is safe to do so, obeying any other lane control signals.
Learn the key details of the SIG12 - Red Cross (Lane Closed) 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.
A red cross displayed above or near a lane means that the lane is closed and must not be used by traffic. In some situations, the closure also applies to the road shoulder next to that lane, meaning you must not drive or continue on that shoulder either. This signal is commonly used for lane control on motorways or multi-lane roads to manage incidents, roadworks, or traffic flow. When you see a red cross over your lane, you must change lanes safely as soon as possible and continue only in an open lane.
The lane, and in some cases the adjacent shoulder, must not be used for traffic.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the SIG12 - Red Cross (Lane Closed) 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.
The SIG12 Red Cross road sign strictly prohibits you from driving in the lane marked with the cross. It also means you cannot use the adjacent shoulder if the closure notice extends to it. Attempting to continue in the closed lane or shoulder is dangerous and against traffic rules.
Upon seeing the SIG12 Red Cross sign above your lane, your immediate action should be to check your mirrors, signal, and safely change to an adjacent open lane as soon as possible. Always look for other signals that indicate which lanes are still open for traffic.
Generally, no. The definition of the SIG12 Red Cross sign indicates that the lane and 'in some cases the adjacent shoulder' must not be used. Always assume the closure applies to the shoulder as well unless explicitly indicated otherwise, and prioritize moving to a designated open lane.
A common mistake in the theory exam is hesitating or delaying the lane change when seeing the SIG12 Red Cross sign. Learners might also wrongly assume they can continue if the road ahead looks clear. Remember, the sign demands immediate and safe action to move out of the closed lane.
Not necessarily. The SIG12 Red Cross sign specifically closes the lane(s) it is displayed over. Other lanes on the road may remain open. It is important to look for accompanying signs or variable message signs that direct traffic flow and indicate which lanes are safe to use.
A clear reference image of the SIG12 - Red Cross (Lane Closed) road sign used in Sweden.
The SIG12 - Red Cross (Lane Closed) road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The SIG12 - Red Cross (Lane Closed) road sign is part of the Traffic Signals (L) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.