Maximum speed advised at road works sign

What it means

The number is the highest speed recommended through the works. Because it isn't in a red circle, it isn't a mandatory speed limit.

Speeds in a red circle are mandatory. A speed on a rectangular plate is the maximum advised for the conditions.

Treat it seriously. The Highway Code tells you to take extra care at road works and to observe all signs, and if there's also a temporary speed limit in a red circle, you must not exceed it.

Rules to know

• The sign shows the maximum speed advised, in miles per hour, through road works.

  Know Your Traffic Signs, p. 160

• You must not exceed any temporary maximum speed limit.

  The Highway Code, Rule 288

• Speed limits that are not shown in a red circle are the maximum speeds advised for the conditions.

  Know Your Traffic Signs, p. 104

Common mistakes

• Mistake: Treating it as the legal speed limit.

  Instead: It's advisory. The legal limit is the one shown in a red circle, which you must not exceed.

• Mistake: Ignoring it because it's only advice.

  Instead: It shows the speed considered appropriate through the works. Take extra care and observe all road works signs.

Test yourself

Recalling the answer helps it stick. Pick an answer to see how you did.

Question 1 of 2

What does this sign mean?

• AYou must not go faster than the number shown, in mph.
• BWarns of loose chippings on the road ahead.
• CShows the maximum speed advised, in mph, through road works.
• DWarns of road works or an obstruction in the road ahead.

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