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Swedish Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Prepare for Go: What the Horizontal Bar Signal Means

SIG9 - S with Horizontal Bar (Prepare for Go) Swedish road sign meaning

This SIG9 traffic signal, often called 'Prepare for Go' or 'S with bar', warns you that the signal is about to change from a stop aspect to a proceed aspect. Although a change is imminent, you must treat it exactly like the standard 'S' (Stop) signal: do not pass the stop line or the signal itself. Movement is only permitted once the vertical bar appears, indicating it's safe to proceed. This sign helps ensure orderly traffic flow and prevents drivers from moving prematurely, which is crucial for safety and passing your driving theory test.

About the SIG9 - S with Horizontal Bar (Prepare for Go) road sign

Learn the key details of the SIG9 - S with Horizontal Bar (Prepare for Go) 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 SIG9

This signal shows an ‘S’ together with a horizontal bar to indicate that the signal will soon change to the vertical bar aspect. Despite the upcoming change, the current instruction remains the same as the ‘S’ stop signal: vehicles and trams must not pass the stop line, or if no stop line exists, must not pass the signal. The purpose is to warn that the permitted phase is about to start, allowing drivers and tram operators to be ready. Movement is allowed only when the vertical bar signal is actually displayed.

Meaning of SIG9

A change to a vertical bar is imminent. Otherwise, the signal has the same meaning as S (Stop).

Allowed actions for SIG9

Remaining stopped and prepared to moveChecking surroundings and readinessProceeding only when the vertical bar is shown

Prohibited actions for SIG9

Starting to move before the vertical bar appearsRolling past the stop line while waitingEntering the controlled area during the stop phase

SIG9 - S with Horizontal Bar (Prepare for Go) road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the SIG9 - S with Horizontal Bar (Prepare for Go) 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 SIG9 'S with Horizontal Bar' signal indicate?

The SIG9 signal with a horizontal bar indicates that the traffic signal is about to change from a stop aspect (a solid 'S') to a go aspect (a vertical bar). It's a warning that you will soon be allowed to proceed, but you must still stop and wait for the vertical bar.

How should I react when I see the SIG9 'Prepare for Go' sign?

You must react as if it were a standard stop signal (SIG8). This means you must stop before the stop line, or before the signal if there is no stop line. Do not move forward or roll past the stop line while waiting for the vertical bar.

When is it safe to move after seeing the SIG9 'S with bar' signal?

It is only safe to move after the signal changes to a vertical bar. The horizontal bar is a preparatory signal, not permission to move. You should be ready to move when the vertical bar appears, but only proceed when it is displayed.

What are common mistakes learners make with the SIG9 'Prepare for Go' signal during the theory exam?

A common exam trap is misinterpreting the horizontal bar as an indication that you can start moving or creep forward. Learners might also assume they can roll up to the stop line, which is still prohibited until the vertical bar is shown. Always wait for the explicit 'go' signal (vertical bar) before proceeding.

Is the SIG9 signal used for both cars and trams?

Yes, traffic signals like SIG9 are used for both vehicles and trams. Tram operators, like car drivers, must stop and wait for the vertical bar before proceeding. The meaning and required action remain the same for all vehicle types affected by the signal.

SIG9 - S with Horizontal Bar (Prepare for Go) road sign image

A clear reference image of the SIG9 - S with Horizontal Bar (Prepare for Go) road sign used in Sweden.

SIG9 - S with Horizontal Bar (Prepare for Go) road sign

Other names for the SIG9 - S with Horizontal Bar (Prepare for Go)

The SIG9 - S with Horizontal Bar (Prepare for Go) road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

S with barS pre-go signalPrepare to proceed STram pre-greenS horizontal line

Traffic Signals (L) road sign category

The SIG9 - S with Horizontal Bar (Prepare for Go) road sign is part of the Traffic Signals (L) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

Dive into Swedish road sign knowledge

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