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RockfallWorldwide

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.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Worldwide

43. Rockfall

A rockfall warning indicates a road section where rocks or stones may fall from a cliff, cutting or steep slope, or where fallen material may already be present on the road. The danger may affect the full carriageway and can appear suddenly.

Drivers should reduce speed, scan the road and slopes ahead, increase their following distance and remain prepared to stop. They should avoid unnecessary stopping in the exposed section and never attempt to move unstable rocks themselves.

Warning for rockfall. (Route 206, Hyogo, Japan)
Wikimedia.org • 武士の酒宴 • CC0
What does a rockfall warning mean?

It warns that rocks or stones may fall onto the road or may already be lying on the carriageway.

🔗 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 falling rocks. Warning for falling rocks.

Does a rockfall sign impose a speed limit?

No. It normally warns of danger rather than setting a numerical limit. Drivers must reduce speed when necessary to react safely.

🔗 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. Traffic lights, priority signs and the ordinary priority rules remain applicable.

🔗 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

How should you approach a rockfall area?

Reduce speed smoothly, increase your following distance and watch the road surface, slope, barriers and vehicles ahead for signs of falling or fallen material.

🔗 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

What does a distance panel below the sign mean?

It may indicate how far ahead the danger begins. Another panel may indicate the length of the hazardous road section.

🔗 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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