Especially in mountainous areas.

To warn that rocks could fall on the carriageway from the left or from the right-hand side.

Slow down to be able to stop within their sight distance if a fall occurs or has occurred. Such falls occur more often when it rains and therefore reduce your speed further since your stopping distance during rainy weather will be longer.

Overview The Temporary Symbolic Signs (South Africa) – Falling Rocks Sign are used on public roads, especially in mountainous areas, to warn drivers that rocks or debris may fall onto the roadway from slopes on either side. These conditions can become more dangerous during or after rainfall. What the Sign Means This sign indicates a risk of falling rocks from cliffs, embankments, or unstable slopes onto the road ahead. The hazard may occur from either the left or right-hand side of the carriageway. The key purpose is: to warn of potential rockfall ahead and require drivers to slow down and be prepared to stop within visible distance. How It Works in Practice Loose rocks may detach from slopes or cliffs above the road. Rain increases the likelihood of rock movement and landslides. Obstructions may appear suddenly on the roadway. Visibility may be reduced in mountainous or curved sections. Driver Responsibilities Slow down immediately when approaching the warning area Be prepared to stop within the distance you can see ahead Increase caution during wet or rainy conditions Stay alert for debris already on the road Where You Will See This Sign In mountainous or rocky terrain Along roads cut into hillsides or cliffs In areas prone to landslides or erosion Near construction or blasting zones in rock areas Purpose of the Sign The purpose of the falling rocks sign is to alert drivers to the danger of sudden rockfall so they can reduce speed, maintain vigilance, and avoid collisions or damage caused by debris on the road. Common Mistakes to Avoid Driving at normal speed in mountainous terrain Ignoring weather conditions that increase rockfall risk Following other vehicles too closely in hazard zones Not watching the road edges or slopes above Safety Tips Reduce speed well before entering rockfall-prone areas Keep extra distance from vehicles ahead Be especially cautious during or after rain Watch the sides of the road for unstable rocks or debris Penalties for Ignoring the Sign Ignoring falling rocks warnings may result in: Serious vehicle damage from debris impact Loss of control while avoiding obstacles Accidents in confined mountain roads Fines for reckless or unsafe driving Summary The falling rocks sign in South Africa warns drivers of potential rockfall from surrounding slopes, especially in mountainous and rainy conditions. Drivers must slow down, stay alert, and be ready to stop within visible distance to ensure safety.

Especially in mountainous areas.

To warn that rocks could fall on the carriageway from the left or from the right-hand side.

Slow down to be able to stop within their sight distance if a fall occurs or has occurred. Such falls occur more often when it rains and therefore reduce your speed further since your stopping distance during rainy weather will be longer.

Overview The Temporary Symbolic Signs (South Africa) – Falling Rocks Sign is a warning sign used especially in mountainous areas to alert drivers that rocks may fall onto the carriageway from cliffs or steep slopes on either side. What the Sign Means This sign warns that falling rocks are possible ahead from either the left or right-hand side of the road. These conditions are often temporary and can become more dangerous during or after rainfall. How It Works in Practice Loose rocks may detach from slopes or cliffs and fall onto the road. Rain increases the likelihood of rock movement and instability. Fallen rocks may block part or all of the roadway. Hazards can appear suddenly with little warning. Driver Responsibilities Slow down immediately when approaching the area Be ready to stop within your visible sight distance Watch carefully for rocks already on the road Reduce speed further in wet or rainy conditions Where You Will See This Sign This sign is commonly found: In mountainous or rocky regions Along winding roads near steep slopes or cliffs In areas prone to erosion or unstable rock faces Purpose of the Sign The purpose of this temporary falling rocks sign is to warn drivers of an increased and possibly short-term risk of rockfall so they can reduce speed, stay alert, and avoid collisions with debris or sudden road blockages. Common Mistakes to Avoid Driving too fast through mountainous terrain Ignoring warning signs during or after rain Failing to scan the road ahead for debris Attempting overtaking in high-risk areas Safety Tips Reduce speed well before entering the area Maintain full attention on both road and slopes Increase following distance from other vehicles Be prepared to stop suddenly if rocks are present Penalties for Ignoring the Sign Ignoring this warning may result in: Collision with fallen rocks or debris Tyre, suspension, or body damage Loss of vehicle control or sudden stops Serious accidents in hazardous terrain Summary The temporary falling rocks sign in South Africa warns drivers of possible rockfall from surrounding slopes, especially in rainy conditions. Drivers must slow down, stay alert, and be ready to stop within sight distance to ensure safe travel.

On any road

To warn that there is danger of some kind ahead.

Slow down and look out for anything on or next to the carriageway that could cause you to change speed or direction.

Overview The Temporary Symbolic Signs (South Africa) – General Warning Sign is a broad warning sign used on public roads to alert drivers that there is an unspecified hazard ahead. It does not describe a specific danger but indicates that caution is required. What the Sign Means This sign warns that some form of danger or unusual road condition is ahead. The exact hazard may vary, so drivers must stay alert and be prepared to react quickly. How It Works in Practice A hazard exists ahead, but it may not be immediately visible. The danger could involve road works, obstacles, or traffic changes. Drivers may need to change speed or direction suddenly. Conditions may vary depending on location and temporary work zones. Driver Responsibilities Slow down immediately when approaching the sign Stay alert and scan the road ahead and surroundings Be ready to react to unexpected hazards Avoid distractions and maintain full control of the vehicle Where You Will See This Sign This sign is commonly found: Near temporary roadworks or maintenance zones In areas with changing or unclear road conditions At accident scenes or incident-prone areas Where multiple or unknown hazards may exist Purpose of the Sign The purpose of the general warning sign is to alert drivers to potential danger when a specific warning sign is not suitable or when multiple hazards may be present. It encourages heightened awareness and reduced speed. Common Mistakes to Avoid Ignoring the sign due to lack of specific information Maintaining normal driving speed Failing to observe the road ahead carefully Overreacting with sudden braking or steering Safety Tips Reduce speed early and steadily Keep a safe following distance Scan both the road and roadside areas Drive smoothly and be prepared for sudden changes Penalties for Ignoring the Sign Ignoring this warning may result in: Collisions with unexpected hazards Loss of control due to sudden manoeuvres Traffic fines for unsafe driving behaviour Vehicle damage or injury in work zones Summary The general warning sign in South Africa indicates that an unspecified hazard is ahead. Drivers must slow down, stay alert, and be prepared to react safely to any road or traffic changes.

On any road

To warn of a hazard ahead.

Slow down and look out for other road traffic signs that indicate a specific hazard.

Overview The Temporary Symbolic Signs (South Africa) – Emergency Flashing Light Sign is a warning sign used on public roads to alert drivers that there is a hazard ahead, usually indicated by flashing lights from an emergency or temporary control system. What the Sign Means This sign warns that there is an emergency or temporary danger ahead, often marked by flashing lights from roadworks, accident scenes, or traffic control devices. Drivers must treat it as an early warning of an active hazard area. How It Works in Practice Flashing lights indicate a hazard or controlled traffic zone ahead. The specific danger may not yet be visible from a distance. Additional road signs or instructions will usually follow. Traffic flow may be slowed, diverted, or controlled. Driver Responsibilities Slow down immediately when approaching the flashing lights Stay alert for additional warning or instruction signs Be prepared to stop if required Follow directions from traffic officers or temporary signals Where You Will See This Sign This sign is commonly found: Near accident scenes or emergency response areas At temporary roadworks or maintenance zones At lane closures or traffic diversions In areas with temporary traffic control measures Purpose of the Sign The purpose of the emergency flashing light sign is to give early warning of a hazardous or controlled area so drivers can reduce speed, stay alert, and prepare to follow additional instructions safely. Common Mistakes to Avoid Ignoring flashing lights and maintaining normal speed Failing to look for additional warning signs Entering the area without caution Not responding to traffic control instructions Safety Tips Reduce speed as soon as flashing lights are visible Keep full attention on the road ahead Be prepared for sudden stops or lane changes Follow all instructions from traffic control personnel Penalties for Ignoring the Sign Ignoring emergency flashing light warnings may result in: Collisions in active hazard zones Serious injury or vehicle damage Traffic fines for reckless or negligent driving Obstruction of emergency or roadwork operations Summary The emergency flashing light sign in South Africa warns drivers of a hazard or controlled area ahead. Drivers must slow down, stay alert, and follow any additional instructions to ensure safe passage.

On any the road especially in rural and mountainous areas.

To warn about strong crosswinds that could force your vehicles off course.

Determine if a wind is blowing and from which direction. Any shielding of the wind by a truck, bridge or excavation will affect your vehicle and you should adjust the steering in time.

Overview The Temporary Symbolic Signs (South Africa) – Crosswinds Sign are used on public roads, especially in rural, open, and mountainous areas, to warn drivers of strong side winds that may affect vehicle stability and control. What the Sign Means This sign indicates that strong crosswinds may be present on the road ahead, which can push a vehicle sideways and affect steering, especially for high-sided or light vehicles. The key purpose is: to warn of dangerous crosswinds ahead and require drivers to adjust steering and speed to maintain control of the vehicle. How It Works in Practice Wind may blow strongly from one side of the road. Vehicles can be pushed off course, especially larger or lighter ones. Wind strength may change suddenly due to terrain or structures. Wind shadows (caused by trucks, bridges, or cuttings) can cause sudden shifts in stability. Driver Responsibilities Slow down when entering exposed areas Hold the steering wheel firmly and be ready to correct direction Anticipate sudden gusts, especially when passing large vehicles or gaps in terrain Keep a safe distance from other vehicles Where You Will See This Sign In open rural areas with little wind protection On bridges or elevated roads In mountain passes or valleys Near large open fields or coastal roads Purpose of the Sign The purpose of the crosswinds sign is to warn drivers that strong side winds may affect vehicle stability so they can adjust speed, maintain control, and react safely to sudden gusts or wind changes. Common Mistakes to Avoid Driving at normal speed in high wind areas Not anticipating sudden gusts after passing large vehicles Loose steering grip or overcorrection Ignoring changes in vehicle stability Safety Tips Reduce speed before entering exposed sections Keep both hands firmly on the steering wheel Be especially cautious when passing trucks or bridges Maintain steady and controlled steering inputs Penalties for Ignoring the Sign Ignoring crosswind warnings may result in: Loss of vehicle control Vehicles being pushed into other lanes or off the road Rollover risk for high-sided vehicles Serious collisions in windy conditions Summary The crosswinds sign in South Africa warns drivers of strong side winds that may affect vehicle control. Drivers must slow down, stay alert, and adjust steering carefully to maintain stability in changing wind conditions.

On any road especially in rural areas.

To warn the driver that there is a drift ahead and that the road could be flooded.

Slow down and if it is not known how deep the water is, stop. If passable, drive through the water slowly.

Overview The Temporary Symbolic Signs (South Africa) – Drift Sign are used on public roads, especially in rural areas, to warn drivers that a drift (a low-water crossing) is ahead and that the road may be flooded or covered with flowing water. What the Sign Means This sign indicates that the road ahead may pass through water, such as a stream, river crossing, or flooded section of roadway. The depth and strength of the water may vary and can be dangerous or difficult to judge. The key purpose is: to warn of a possible water crossing ahead and require drivers to slow down, assess conditions, and proceed only if safe. How It Works in Practice The road may dip into a natural watercourse or flood-prone area. Water depth may change quickly due to rain or upstream flow. The road surface beneath the water may be hidden or uneven. Strong currents can affect vehicle stability. Driver Responsibilities Slow down well before reaching the drift Stop if you are unsure of the water depth Only proceed if the crossing is clearly safe Drive slowly and steadily through the water if passable Where You Will See This Sign In rural and farming areas At river or stream crossings On roads without bridges in low-lying areas In regions prone to flooding after heavy rain Purpose of the Sign The purpose of the drift sign is to warn drivers of potential water hazards on the roadway so they can stop, assess conditions, and avoid driving into dangerous or flooded crossings. Common Mistakes to Avoid Driving into water without checking depth Attempting to cross fast-moving water Ignoring hidden road damage beneath water Following other vehicles blindly into the drift Safety Tips Stop and assess water depth before crossing Wait if water is flowing strongly or is unclear Cross slowly in low gear to maintain control Avoid crossing after heavy rainfall if possible Penalties for Ignoring the Sign Ignoring drift warnings may result in: Vehicle stalling or being swept away by water Engine damage due to water ingress Loss of control in flooded sections Serious injury or drowning risk Summary The drift sign in South Africa warns drivers of possible flooded or water-covered road crossings. Drivers must slow down, assess conditions carefully, and only cross if it is safe to do so.

On any road where there is fog or smoke.

To warn that there is a possibility reduced visibility on the road ahead that might cause a hazard to road users.

Look out for Fog or smoke and slow down. Be on the look out for other slow moving vehicles.

Overview The Temporary Symbolic Signs (South Africa) – Reduced Visibility Sign are used on public roads to warn drivers that visibility ahead may be significantly reduced due to fog, smoke, dust, or similar conditions. What the Sign Means This sign indicates that drivers may not be able to clearly see the road, other vehicles, or hazards ahead. Reduced visibility increases the risk of collisions, especially in fast-moving traffic. The key purpose is: to warn of poor visibility ahead and require drivers to slow down and drive with extra caution. How It Works in Practice Fog, smoke, dust, or haze may limit how far ahead you can see. Other vehicles may only become visible at close range. Slow-moving or stationary vehicles may appear suddenly. Lane markings and road edges may be harder to see. Driver Responsibilities Reduce speed immediately when visibility drops Use headlights appropriately (dipped headlights in fog or smoke) Increase following distance significantly Be prepared for sudden stops or slow-moving traffic Where You Will See This Sign In areas prone to fog (valleys or coastal regions) Near industrial zones with smoke or dust On rural roads during veld fires or burning conditions In early morning or late evening low-visibility conditions Purpose of the Sign The purpose of the reduced visibility sign is to warn drivers that sight distance is limited, so they must slow down, increase awareness, and prepare for unexpected hazards or traffic changes ahead. Common Mistakes to Avoid Driving at normal speed in fog or smoke Using bright headlights incorrectly (causing glare) Following other vehicles too closely Not anticipating sudden obstacles or traffic slowdowns Safety Tips Slow down as soon as visibility decreases Use low beam headlights for better visibility Keep a large following distance Be prepared to stop safely if necessary Penalties for Ignoring the Sign Ignoring reduced visibility warnings may result in: Rear-end collisions due to poor sight distance Multi-vehicle accidents in fog or smoke Loss of control due to sudden hazards Fines for reckless or unsafe driving conditions Summary The reduced visibility sign in South Africa warns drivers that fog, smoke, or dust may limit how far ahead they can see. Drivers must slow down, increase following distance, and drive cautiously to avoid collisions.

On any road

To warn that there is a possibility of congested traffic.

Look out for slow moving vehicle and adapt speed accordingly.

Overview The Temporary Symbolic Signs (South Africa) – Congestion Sign are used on public roads to warn drivers that traffic congestion or slow-moving traffic may be expected ahead. These conditions often occur in temporary traffic zones, roadworks, or high-traffic areas. What the Sign Means This sign indicates that traffic flow ahead may be reduced or stopped due to congestion, causing vehicles to move slowly or queue. The key purpose is: to warn of possible traffic congestion ahead and require drivers to slow down and adjust to changing traffic conditions. How It Works in Practice Traffic may slow down or stop unexpectedly. Vehicles may queue over a long distance. Roadworks, accidents, or high traffic volumes may cause delays. Lane changes or merging may be required. Driver Responsibilities Slow down when approaching potential congestion zones Stay alert for sudden stops or slow-moving traffic Maintain a safe following distance Be patient and avoid unnecessary lane changes Where You Will See This Sign Near roadworks or lane closures On busy urban roads during peak hours Approaching intersections or toll points Where accidents or incidents frequently occur Purpose of the Sign The purpose of the congestion sign is to warn drivers that traffic flow ahead may slow down or become backed up so they can reduce speed early and avoid sudden braking or collisions. Common Mistakes to Avoid Driving at high speed into slow traffic Following other vehicles too closely Frequent unsafe lane changes Not anticipating sudden stops Safety Tips Reduce speed early when approaching congested areas Keep a large following distance Stay patient and avoid aggressive driving Watch for brake lights ahead Penalties for Ignoring the Sign Ignoring congestion warnings may result in: Rear-end collisions in slow traffic Traffic obstruction or blocking intersections Fines for unsafe or aggressive driving Increased risk of multi-vehicle accidents Summary The congestion sign in South Africa warns drivers that traffic ahead may be slow or backed up. Drivers must slow down, maintain safe spacing, and be prepared for changing traffic conditions.

On any road

To warn that there is a possibility of horses and riders being present on the road ahead.

Look out for horses and riders ahead and be prepared to slow down or stop.

Overview The Temporary Symbolic Signs (South Africa) – Horses and Riders Sign are used on public roads to warn drivers that horses with riders may be present on or crossing the roadway ahead. This is especially common in rural, equestrian, or recreational areas. What the Sign Means This sign indicates that horses and riders may be on the road ahead or entering it unexpectedly. Horses are sensitive animals and can react unpredictably to noise, speed, or sudden movement. The key purpose is: to warn of horses and riders ahead and require drivers to slow down and be prepared to stop if necessary. How It Works in Practice Horses may be riding along or crossing the road. Animals can be easily startled by vehicles or loud sounds. Riders may move in groups or occupy part of the roadway. Traffic must often yield to ensure safety. Driver Responsibilities Slow down well in advance when approaching the area Be prepared to stop if horses are present Avoid sudden acceleration, braking, or loud noises Pass slowly and at a safe distance when allowed Where You Will See This Sign In rural and farming communities Near equestrian centres or riding schools On bridle paths crossing public roads In recreational or countryside areas Purpose of the Sign The purpose of the horses and riders sign is to alert drivers to the presence of vulnerable road users on horseback so they can reduce speed, avoid startling animals, and ensure safe passage for all road users. Common Mistakes to Avoid Driving at normal speed in horse-riding areas Using loud horns or sudden acceleration near horses Passing too closely to riders or animals Ignoring riders already on or entering the road Safety Tips Slow down immediately when entering horse areas Pass slowly and give horses plenty of space Be calm and avoid sudden vehicle movements Watch for hand signals from riders or marshals Penalties for Ignoring the Sign Ignoring horse and rider warnings may result in: Accidents involving riders or animals Serious injury to vulnerable road users Loss of control if a horse is startled Fines for reckless or negligent driving Summary The horses and riders sign in South Africa warns drivers that horses may be present on the road ahead. Drivers must slow down, stay alert, and pass carefully to ensure the safety of both riders and animals.

On any road

To warn that there is overall width of vehicles restriction as indicated in metres on the road ahead.

Do not continue of your vehicle is wider than indicated on the sign.

Overview The Temporary Symbolic Signs (South Africa) – Width Restricted Sign is a warning sign used on public roads to indicate that there is a maximum vehicle width restriction ahead, expressed in metres. What the Sign Means This sign warns that vehicles wider than the stated measurement are not allowed to proceed. The restriction is usually due to narrow roads, structures, or temporary roadworks. How It Works in Practice The road ahead cannot safely accommodate wide vehicles. Clearance space is limited due to road design or obstacles. Large vehicles may become stuck or cause damage if they proceed. Temporary restrictions are often used during roadworks or maintenance. Driver Responsibilities Check your vehicle width before continuing Do not proceed if your vehicle exceeds the indicated limit Find an alternative route if necessary Proceed cautiously if your vehicle is within the limit Where You Will See This Sign This sign is commonly found: At roadworks and construction zones On narrow bridges or tunnels In temporary traffic diversions On rural or constrained roads with limited clearance Purpose of the Sign The purpose of the width restriction sign is to prevent oversized vehicles from entering areas where they cannot safely pass, ensuring smooth traffic flow and avoiding damage or blockages. Common Mistakes to Avoid Ignoring vehicle width limits Attempting to squeeze through narrow sections Failing to check load width extensions (mirrors, cargo, trailers) Entering restricted areas without verifying clearance Safety Tips Always know your vehicle’s exact width Use alternative routes if unsure Drive slowly in restricted areas even if allowed Watch for sudden narrowing or obstacles Penalties for Ignoring the Sign Ignoring width restrictions may result in: Vehicles becoming stuck in narrow sections Damage to infrastructure or vehicles Traffic obstruction and delays Fines or liability for damages caused Summary The width restricted sign in South Africa warns drivers that vehicles wider than a specified measurement cannot proceed safely. Drivers must verify their vehicle size and use alternative routes if necessary.

On any road

To warn that there is a possibility of electrical shock from the overhead electrical power cables on the road ahead.

Look out for electrical cables on the road way ahead.

Overview The Temporary Symbolic Signs (South Africa) – Electrical Shock Sign are used on public roads to warn drivers of the danger of possible electrical shock from overhead power cables or electrical infrastructure near the roadway. What the Sign Means This sign indicates that electrical power lines may be present above or near the road, creating a serious hazard if they are contacted by vehicles, especially tall vehicles or equipment. The key purpose is: to warn of electrical hazards ahead and require drivers to stay alert and avoid contact with overhead or damaged electrical cables. How It Works in Practice Overhead power lines may cross low-clearance road sections. Cables may hang lower than usual due to weather or damage. Downed or damaged lines may still carry dangerous voltage. Tall vehicles are at increased risk of contact. Driver Responsibilities Slow down when approaching areas with overhead electrical lines Check clearance height if driving tall or loaded vehicles Never touch or approach fallen electrical cables Report damaged or dangerous electrical infrastructure immediately Where You Will See This Sign Near power line crossings over roads In construction and roadwork zones In rural areas with low-hanging cables Near industrial or utility maintenance areas Purpose of the Sign The purpose of the electrical shock warning sign is to prevent electrocution or injury by alerting drivers to overhead or nearby electrical hazards so they can adjust speed and avoid contact. Common Mistakes to Avoid Ignoring overhead cable warnings Driving tall vehicles without checking clearance Touching or approaching downed power lines Assuming fallen wires are safe Safety Tips Always assume electrical cables are live and dangerous Reduce speed in areas with overhead lines Verify vehicle height clearance before passing under cables Keep a safe distance from any damaged electrical infrastructure Penalties for Ignoring the Sign Ignoring electrical hazard warnings may result in: Severe injury or fatal electrocution Vehicle damage from electrical contact Fire or secondary accidents Legal consequences for unsafe driving behavior Summary The temporary electrical shock sign in South Africa warns drivers of possible contact with overhead or damaged power cables. Drivers must slow down, stay alert, and avoid any contact with electrical infrastructure to ensure safety.

On any gravel road.

To warn that the gravel road you are travelling on will end ahead.

Look out for an asphalt, tar or concrete road ahead.

Overview The Temporary Symbolic Signs (South Africa) – Gravel Road Ends Sign is a warning sign used on gravel roads to indicate that the unpaved surface is about to change into a paved road such as tar, asphalt, or concrete. What the Sign Means This sign warns drivers that the gravel surface will end ahead and transition into a sealed road surface. The change in surface can affect vehicle handling and stopping distance. How It Works in Practice The loose gravel surface ends and a paved road begins. Vehicle traction and steering response will change suddenly. Dust and loose stones will decrease on the new surface. The transition may create a small edge or bump at the junction. Driver Responsibilities Slow down before reaching the end of the gravel road Maintain firm control of the steering wheel during transition Be prepared for changes in grip and braking performance Watch for uneven surfaces at the junction point Where You Will See This Sign This sign is commonly found: At the end of rural gravel roads Where farm or access roads meet main tar roads In transitional areas between rural and urban routes Near road upgrade or resurfacing zones Purpose of the Sign The purpose of the gravel road ends sign is to warn drivers of a sudden change in road surface so they can adjust speed, maintain control, and safely transition to a paved roadway. Common Mistakes to Avoid Approaching the transition at high speed Failing to adjust for different road grip Sudden braking on loose gravel near the junction Ignoring the change in road conditions Safety Tips Reduce speed well before the road surface changes Hold the steering wheel firmly through the transition Expect a smoother but potentially slippery surface ahead Maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles Penalties for Ignoring the Sign Ignoring this warning may result in: Loss of vehicle control during surface transition Tyre or suspension damage from uneven edges Collisions caused by sudden braking or skidding Traffic fines for unsafe driving behaviour Summary The gravel road ends sign in South Africa warns drivers that a gravel surface will soon change to a paved road. Drivers must slow down and maintain control to safely manage the transition.