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Difficulty: MediumMotorway Signs and Signals

Match each motorway electronic matrix signal display with the corresponding mandatory rule or driver action required by the UK Highway Code.

  • A red cross ('X') displayed with flashing red light pairs above an individual laneYou must not drive in that specific lane and must vacate it immediately if safe to do so
  • Red light pairs flashing alternately displayed on a central reservation or across all overhead gantriesYou must not proceed beyond the signal in any lane and must stop
  • A white diagonal arrow pointing downwards to the left with flashing amber lights above a laneYou must prepare to move out of the current lane and join the lane to the left
  • The word 'End' displayed on a matrix sign with flashing amber lightsAll temporary hazard advisories and matrix speed restrictions previously displayed have ended

Answer

Each motorway matrix display directly correlates with statutory Highway Code instructions: a Red 'X' over a single lane mandates an immediate lane closure; flashing red lights across all lanes or on the central reservation mandate a full carriageway closure and stopping; a diagonal downward arrow instructs drivers to merge in the direction indicated; and an 'End' display signals the conclusion of previous matrix restrictions.
According to UK Highway Code Rules 255 to 258: A Red 'X' signal displayed above a lane means that lane is closed and must not be used. Flashing red light pairs on the central reservation or above all lanes mean the entire carriageway is closed and you must not proceed beyond the signal. A downward diagonal arrow indicates that you must move into the lane indicated to avoid a closure ahead. The 'End' signal indicates the termination of earlier temporary restrictions.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify individual lane closures and full carriageway closures based on red flashing light configurations
A Red 'X' above a specific lane closes only that lane, whereas red light pairs flashing across all lanes or from the central reservation indicate that all lanes are closed and drivers must stop before the signal.
Highway Code Rule 258 distinguishes between individual lane closures and complete motorway closures through red light positioning.
2
Differentiate intermediate directional signals from restriction cancellation signs
A downward diagonal arrow indicates an upcoming lane closure requiring a lane change, whereas an 'End' sign signals the termination of previous matrix restrictions.
Highway Code Rules 256 and 257 establish advance warnings to maintain traffic flow safely ahead of hazards.
3
Pair each electronic signal description with its exact legal meaning and driver obligation
All four matrix display descriptions are matched to their corresponding Highway Code definitions.
Ensures complete alignment between signal symbols and statutory driving rules.

Key Concept

Motorway Electronic Matrix Signals and Statutory Lane Control
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Motorway Signs and Signals

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