Driving Theory
British Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Prepare for upcoming hazards with the Distance and Direction to Hazard warning sign.

573 - Distance and direction to hazard British road sign meaning

This warning sign, code 573, alerts you to an upcoming hazard and indicates its distance and direction. It's crucial to treat this as an early cue, prompting you to adjust your speed smoothly and increase your observations well before the hazard becomes immediate. Always prepare for potential changes in road conditions, visibility, or traffic flow indicated by this sign.

Understanding the "Distance and Direction to Hazard" Sign (Code 573)

Mastering the 'Distance and Direction to Hazard' sign (Code 573) is crucial for safe driving and your Great Britain theory test. This sign demands early speed reduction and increased observation, guiding your response to upcoming road conditions and ensuring a better understanding of traffic sign meanings for your revision.

Definition of 573

This warning sign is used before a hazard or road feature that may require an earlier response than the driver would otherwise make. Its purpose is to give enough time to reduce speed smoothly, increase observation, and avoid sudden braking or steering. The correct practical response depends on the exact location, traffic level, visibility, road surface, and whether pedestrians, cyclists, animals, or crossing traffic may be present. It is listed in the catalogue as code 573.

Meaning of 573

"Distance and direction to hazard" gives advance warning of distance and direction to hazard. It tells the driver to look further ahead, manage speed early, and prepare for a possible change in priority, road position, visibility, or stopping distance.

Allowed actions for 573

Ease off early and adjust speed before the hazard becomes immediate.Increase following distance so there is room for smooth braking or steering.Check mirrors and road position before responding to the hazard.Prepare to yield, stop, wait, or change position if the road layout requires it.

Prohibited actions for 573

Do not dismiss the warning as background information.Do not wait until the hazard is directly ahead before reducing speed.Do not overtake, accelerate hard, or change lane abruptly where the warning reduces safety margins.Do not focus only on the sign; keep scanning the road, mirrors, and side areas.

573 - Distance and direction to hazard road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the 573 - Distance and direction to hazard road sign. Learn how the sign works, what rules it represents, and how it affects real driving situations. This FAQ strengthens your understanding and supports accurate decision making for the British driving theory exam in Great Britain.

What does the Distance and Direction to Hazard sign (573) mean?

The 'Distance and Direction to Hazard' sign (573) is a warning sign that provides advance notice of a hazard ahead. It tells you how far away it is and in which direction the hazard is located, giving you time to prepare by managing your speed and observation.

How should I react when I see the Distance and Direction to Hazard sign (573)?

Upon seeing sign 573, you should ease off the accelerator early and adjust your speed smoothly. Increase your following distance and scan ahead for potential issues. Be ready to brake gently, change position, or yield if necessary, depending on the specific hazard and traffic conditions.

What are common mistakes learners make with the Distance and Direction to Hazard sign (573)?

A common mistake is ignoring the sign until the hazard is very close. Learners might also forget to increase their observation or fail to reduce speed early enough, leading to sudden braking or jerky movements. Always remember this sign is for *advance* warning.

Can supplementary plates affect the meaning of the Distance and Direction to Hazard sign (573)?

Yes, supplementary plates can significantly alter the interpretation of the 'Distance and Direction to Hazard' sign. These plates might specify the exact distance to the hazard, its nature (e.g., sharp bend, junction), or which direction to take. Always check for these plates.

Is the Distance and Direction to Hazard sign (573) the same as other warning signs?

While all warning signs alert you to potential dangers, sign 573 specifically provides both distance and direction. This is key as it allows for proactive rather than reactive driving, giving you more time to assess and respond safely to the upcoming situation.

573 - Distance and direction to hazard road sign image

A clear reference image of the 573 - Distance and direction to hazard road sign used in Great Britain.

573 - Distance and direction to hazard road sign

Other names for the 573 - Distance and direction to hazard

The 573 - Distance and direction to hazard road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Distance and direction to hazard573 warning signGreat Britain warning signwarning signs

Great Britain Warning Signs road sign category

The 573 - Distance and direction to hazard road sign is part of the Great Britain Warning Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

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Ready to Test Your Knowledge on Great Britain Road Signs?

After reviewing the full list of road signs, challenge yourself with practice questions focused specifically on sign recognition. Reinforce your learning and ensure you're fully prepared to identify and understand all traffic signs on the DVSA theory test.

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