QuayWorldwide

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Worldwide. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.


23. Quay

A quay is a constructed area beside a river, canal, harbour or other body of water, commonly used for loading, unloading, mooring vessels or providing waterside access. A road may run alongside the water or lead directly towards the quay edge.

In road traffic, a quay warning indicates a risk that a vehicle could leave the road and enter the water. Drivers should reduce speed, observe the road layout carefully and keep a safe distance from the waterside edge.

Warning for a quay. Warning for a steep descent of 20%. (Cenon-sur-Vienne, France)
Wikimedia.org • Lionel Allorge • CC BY-SA
What is a quay?

A quay is a constructed waterside platform or road area beside a river, canal, harbour or other navigable water. It may be used by ships, vehicles, workers, pedestrians and loading equipment.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section A, relevant hazard descriptions; section C II.1(e), load limits; sign-system reference

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 12–14 and 18; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example

🔗 gov.uk • UK Department for Transport, Know Your Traffic Signs, warning signs

Does the sign mean that the road ends at the water?

It may. The road may lead directly towards the water, turn sharply near it or continue alongside an insufficiently protected edge. Drivers must observe the actual road layout.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section A, relevant hazard descriptions; section C II.1(e), load limits; sign-system reference

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 12–14 and 18; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example

🔗 gov.uk • UK Department for Transport, Know Your Traffic Signs, warning signs

Warning for a quayside or riverbank. Warning for a quayside or riverbank.

How should you approach a quay?

Reduce speed early, remain in full control and watch for the road edge, barriers, bends, workers, pedestrians and moving equipment. Avoid sudden steering or braking close to the water.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section A, relevant hazard descriptions; section C II.1(e), load limits; sign-system reference

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 12–14 and 18; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example

🔗 gov.uk • UK Department for Transport, Know Your Traffic Signs, warning signs

Is there a universal speed limit near a quay?

No. Drivers must follow the posted or general speed limit and reduce their speed further when the road is narrow, wet, poorly lit or close to an unprotected edge.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section A, relevant hazard descriptions; section C II.1(e), load limits; sign-system reference

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 12–14 and 18; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example

🔗 gov.uk • UK Department for Transport, Know Your Traffic Signs, warning signs

Does the sign change priority?

No. Drivers must continue to follow traffic lights, priority signs and the normal priority rules.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section A, relevant hazard descriptions; section C II.1(e), load limits; sign-system reference

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 12–14 and 18; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example

🔗 gov.uk • UK Department for Transport, Know Your Traffic Signs, warning signs

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