Additional signsJapan

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Traffic signs

Traffic rules

An additional sign is a traffic sign placed directly below another sign to provide extra information or clarify how the main sign should be understood. It can specify conditions such as distance, time periods, road users affected, directions, or special circumstances. Additional signs do not create new rules by themselves but modify, limit, or explain the meaning of the sign above them so drivers can apply the rule correctly in that specific situation.

For trucks exceeding the indicated mass.

1. For handcarts

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies specifically to handcarts.

2. For cyclists

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies specifically to cyclists.

3. For motorcycles

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies specifically to motorcycles.

4. For cars

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies specifically to cars. The vehicle category covered by the symbol is determined by the applicable local definitions.

5. For trucks

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies specifically to trucks. The truck categories covered depend on the applicable local definitions.

6. For trucks exceeding the indicated mass

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies specifically to trucks exceeding the indicated mass. The legally relevant mass is determined by the applicable local rules.

7. For buses

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies specifically to buses. The vehicle categories covered depend on the applicable local definitions.

8. Mopeds allowed

This supplementary sign indicates that mopeds are allowed where the main traffic sign would otherwise restrict their access or use. The moped categories covered depend on the applicable local rules.

9. To the left

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies in the direction shown by the arrow, to the left.

10. To the left or right

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies in both directions shown by the arrows, to the left and right.

11. To the right

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies in the direction shown by the arrow, to the right.

12. metres ahead

This supplementary sign indicates the distance from the main traffic sign to the point where the indicated danger, regulation or information begins. The distance is shown in metres.

13. Give way

This supplementary sign displays the instruction Give Way as additional information to the main traffic sign. It must be interpreted together with the main sign.

14. For metres

This supplementary sign indicates the length of the section to which the main traffic sign applies. The length is shown in metres.

15. During the time shown

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies during the time shown.

16. Recommended speed

This supplementary sign indicates a recommended speed rather than a maximum speed limit. Its legal effect depends on the applicable local rules.

17. Danger

This supplementary sign warns of a general or unspecified danger associated with the main traffic sign.

18. Soft verge

This supplementary sign warns that the verge beside the roadway is soft or unstable.

19. Begin

This supplementary sign indicates the beginning of the section to which the main traffic sign applies.

20. End

This supplementary sign indicates the end of the section to which the main traffic sign applies.

21. School

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign relates to a nearby school.

22. Throughout the city

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies throughout the city.