The M8 Solid Line sign, also known as a continuous line or no crossing line, indicates a restriction on changing lanes or crossing onto the opposing carriageway. This prohibition is in place where such actions would be dangerous, like on sharp bends or hills. You must adhere to this line, which often appears as a single or double solid white line, to maintain a safe and predictable flow of traffic. Always plan your lane changes well in advance and within permissible sections.
Learn the key details of the M8 - Solid Line 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 solid line is used where lane changes or crossing would create significant risk, such as in bends, near crests, or where traffic streams must be strictly separated. It may appear as a solid center line or a solid lane line, sometimes double, and the gap between double lines may vary. The legal effect is that you must not cross the solid line except in limited cases permitted by the traffic rules and road design. It enforces clear separation and predictable movement.
A continuous line indicating that crossing the line is restricted by traffic rules. It can appear as a single or double solid center line.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the M8 - Solid Line 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 M8 Solid Line traffic sign is a road marking used to clearly separate traffic lanes or opposing traffic streams where crossing or changing lanes would be hazardous. It ensures drivers stay within their designated areas, enhancing safety on roads with limited visibility or high speeds.
You must not cross a solid white line (M8 sign) to overtake, change lanes, or enter oncoming traffic. This applies to both single and double solid centre lines, and solid lane lines. The primary rule is to remain in your lane unless specific road design or traffic rules permit crossing.
Generally, you must not cross the M8 Solid Line. However, very limited exceptions might exist based on specific road design or traffic management instructions, for example, to access a property if explicitly indicated, or if directed by traffic police. Always prioritise safety and adhere to the general prohibition unless a clear exception is legally permitted and obvious.
A common trap is assuming a double solid line only prohibits overtaking. In reality, both single and double solid lines mean you cannot cross them under normal circumstances. Learners may also hesitate too long to change lanes before the solid line appears, leading to last-minute, unsafe manoeuvres. Always anticipate and plan ahead.
When approaching an M8 Solid Line, be aware that lane changes or overtaking are forbidden. If you need to change lanes or turn, do so well before you reach the solid line. On the theory test, questions about the M8 often test your understanding of when it is unsafe to cross, so be sure to know the implications for speed and visibility.
A clear reference image of the M8 - Solid Line road sign used in Sweden.
The M8 - Solid Line road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The M8 - Solid Line road sign is part of the Road Markings (M) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.