After a time, those road signs that you drilled into your head before your car theory test may have started to fade from your memory. Of course, there are bound to be some road signs that you’ll never forget. A stop sign, for example, is something you’re going to see numerous times on each journey. And if you do forget, we’re pretty sure that you’ll be able to figure out what a sign with STOP written on it in capital letters means.
But there are some road signs that you see less often than you may have forgotten. Are you unsure whether that road is pedestrianised or whether you can park on that single yellow line? We’ve compiled a list of some of the less common road signs in Ireland and what they mean.
Types of Road Signs in Ireland
Traffic signs and markings in Ireland are divided into three main categories: Regulatory, Warning and Information. There are also special categories of signs that are used for roadworks and for alerteding drivers of motorways, bus lanes, cycle lanes crossings. It’s important that drivers know and understand what these signs mean before they attempt to drive on the road.
Regulatory Road Signs
Regulatory road signs are used to display and inform drivers of the rules of the road, and what road traffic laws must be followed. You will usually see this type of road signage at the beginning of a new road, and at different points during your journey. Examples of regulatory road signs include Stop signs, Yield signs and signs displaying the Speed Limit of a road.
Road Warning Signs
Warning signs alert drivers to approaching hazards or dangers that would require you to drive with more caution, for example, roundabouts, junctions or dangerous bends. These signs are typically yellow and black in colour. If you see a warning sign, you should drive with more caution to ensure your own safety as well as the safety of other road users.
Information Road Signs
As you might guess from the name, information signs provide information to drivers about directions, distances, locations and road services that are of interest to drivers. Information signs on national roads are green with white letters, these are the most common. But you will also encounter blue and white signs (for motorways), white with black letters (on local and regional roads) and brown and white signs.
Road Works Signs
If construction or repairs are being carried out on a road, you will normally see orange signs to warn drivers of the roadworks ahead and any special traffic instructions. The purpose of roadworks signage is to keep both drivers and workers safe. If you see roadworks signs, you should reduce your speed and drive carefully.
Do You Know Your Road Signs?
Common Road Signs in Ireland
Clearway Road Sign
This means that parking is prohibited in the area for the times shown.
You sometimes see the Clearway sign accompanying another parking sign. For example, in an area where there is paid parking from 7am to 8pm, you may be restricted from parking between 5pm to 6pm during rush hour. If so, the clearway sign will have 5pm to 6am underneath the ‘X’.
Pedestrianised Street Road Sign
This means that the street is for pedestrians only. No cars are allowed. It may also include times at which this takes effect. In some circumstances, vehicles are allowed on the road after shopping hours.
Single Yellow Line
A single yellow line means that parking is not permitted EXCEPT on Sundays or outside of business hours. If you’re seeing double however, it means that parking is not permitted at any time.
Level Crossing Ahead (Unguarded)
This means that the railway level crossings have no barriers or gates. Drivers must obey the traffic lights at open level crossings.
Overhead Power Lines
At a glance, this sign may look like its indicating a fairly erratic road layout ahead. However it’s a warning sign to drivers that there a power lines overhead. This usually applies to drivers who are in large vehicles such as machinery with loaders attached.
Danger of Strong Crosswinds
You will usually see this sign on an exposed road that is often at a height. On windy days, its important to be aware that your vehicle may be pushed across the road due to high winds. This can be particularly dangerous for drivers of lorries or trucks. Their large sides can catch the wind, and on rare occasions, be overturned.
If you’re up to scratch on road traffic signs in Ireland, why not check out our article of Car Insurance Terms. Are you looking for reliable comprehensive car insurance? Get a quote online today or call a member of our team at 01 409 2600 to get the best quote for you.
Summary of Road Signs
| Road Sign | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Clearway Road Sign | No parking during the times shown, often seen during rush hour restrictions. |
| Pedestrianised Street Road Sign | Indicates a street is for pedestrian use only, sometimes with specified times. |
| Single Yellow Line | No parking except on Sundays or outside of business hours. |
| Level Crossing Ahead (Unguarded) | Warns of railway level crossings without barriers; drivers must obey traffic lights. |
| Overhead Power Lines | Alerts drivers, especially those in large vehicles, of power lines overhead. |
| Danger of Strong Crosswinds | Indicates exposed roads where high winds may push vehicles, particularly high-sided ones. |
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