Width limitWorldwide
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51. Width limit
A width limit prohibits vehicles or vehicle combinations whose total width exceeds the value shown from entering or passing a road section, bridge, tunnel, gateway or other narrow passage. The width includes the vehicle’s load and any equipment or objects extending from its sides.
Drivers must know the maximum travelling width of their vehicle and load, observe advance warnings and use an alternative route when necessary. They should never enter when sufficient lateral clearance is uncertain.
Wikimedia.org • Marc Mongenet • CC BY-SA
What does a width-limit sign mean?
It prohibits vehicles or vehicle combinations whose total width exceeds the displayed value from continuing beyond the sign.
Vehicles wider than indicated prohibited.
How can you recognise a width-limit sign?
It is commonly a circular regulatory sign showing a width in metres, feet or another local unit between horizontal arrowheads.
What is included in the vehicle’s total width?
Check the local measurement rules for the restriction. Allow for the vehicle, its load and any projecting equipment, and do not assume that the body width shown in a brochure is the relevant overall width. Whether particular fittings are counted can depend on national law and the sign concerned.
Does the sign change priority?
No. Traffic lights, priority signs and the ordinary priority rules remain applicable.
What should you do when your vehicle is too wide?
Do not continue. Stop where safe and use the signed diversion or another suitable route.

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