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Difficulty: HardMotorway Signs and Signals

You are driving in the middle lane of a three-lane motorway. The overhead matrix signal directly above your lane displays a diagonal arrow pointing downwards to the left accompanied by flashing amber lights, while no signals are active above the adjacent lanes. What action should you take?

  1. A
    Treat the signal as an instruction to reduce your speed to 30 mph while remaining in your lane
  2. B
    Prepare to exit the motorway immediately at the next slip road
  3. Check your mirrors and move safely into the lane to your left in good timeAnswer
  4. D
    Continue driving in your current lane until you reach a gantry displaying a red 'X'

Answer

Check your mirrors and move safely into the lane to your left in good time
A downward-pointing diagonal arrow accompanied by flashing amber lights on an overhead motorway gantry warns drivers that the lane ahead is closed. Drivers should check their mirrors and filter safely into the lane to the left in good time.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the overhead matrix display and its location
The signal is located directly above the middle lane, displaying a white diagonal arrow pointing down and to the left with flashing amber corner lights.
Overhead gantry signals apply to the specific lane over which they are mounted.
2
Recall UK Highway Code rules regarding motorway lane diversion signals
Highway Code Rule 258 establishes that a diagonal arrow with flashing amber lights gives advance warning that the lane is closed ahead and instructs drivers to move in the direction shown.
Advance warning allows drivers to merge smoothly before encountering the full closure marked by a mandatory red 'X'.
3
Determine the safe, appropriate driving procedure
Perform standard mirror checks, indicate if necessary, and merge safely into the left-hand lane without undue delay.
Proactive lane discipline prevents traffic blockages and collision hazards at the point of lane closure.

Key Concept

Overhead gantry matrix signals and lane closure diversion procedures
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Motorway Signs and Signals

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