Motorists need to watch out for this blank red road sign – do you know what it means? 

Drivers may be confused by a blank circular sign with a red border and unless you’re a motorist who recently passed your theory test you might need a reminder. 

It simply means ‘no vehicles’ and is often seen with a supplementary sign below it to explain exclusions. 

Some exclusions may state ’10pm – 4pm except for access,’ or something similar. 

As stated in The Highway Code these signs denote: ‘No vehicles except bicycles being pushed.’

If you see this sign while driving, it means that you cannot drive your vehicle through the given area. 

These blank red road signs mean ‘no vehicles’ allowed in the area or down the road although bicycles are allowed

There is a risk of incurring a fine if you don’t know what these blank signs mean and inadvertently ignore them

Despite appearing vague with its lack of imagery these warnings are very common on UK roads.

There are thousands of signs across the UK but they can be catagorised into three main areas. 

Red borders are used to provide mandatory instruction with an example of this being signs that state speed limits, or include an image of a car or bike which mean ‘no motor vehicles’.

Blue signs are used for instruction such as ‘turn left’ or indicate a route available only to particular forms of traffic.

Green on the other hand is simply used to give direction and is purely informational. 

Circular signs give orders, mainly something you should not do.

Triangular signs warn or potential hazards and dangers such as changed in traffic flow or rock slides.

Rectangular signs are informational giving drivers knowledge of the road ahead.

Each sign is essential to understand completely not only for road safety but also to avoid a penalty or fine.