Driving Theory
British Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Prepare to stop for light signals at railway or tramway crossings ahead.

773 - Light signals ahead at crossing British road sign meaning

This sign, 'Light signals ahead at crossing' (code 773), warns you that you are approaching a railway or tramway crossing where traffic signals control your passage. You must approach with caution, ready to stop, and ensure you can completely clear the crossing before entering. This is crucial because trains and trams cannot stop quickly, and you must never obstruct the tracks or crossing area.

Interpreting Light Signals at Crossings

This sign (code 773) requires your full attention to traffic light signals at railway or tramway crossings, crucial for your theory test revision. Master its road sign meaning for safe decision-making and successful exam preparation.

Definition of 773

This level-crossing sign is used where road traffic interacts with rail, tram, or crossing equipment. It may refer to barriers, gates, warning lights, telephones, overhead cables, live rails, or special instructions for certain users. Because rail vehicles cannot stop quickly, the safe response is to slow early, obey signals and barriers, and enter only when there is enough space to clear the crossing completely. It is listed in the catalogue as code 773.

Meaning of 773

"Light signals ahead at crossing" warns or instructs drivers at a railway, tramway, or private crossing. The driver should approach prepared to stop and must keep the crossing clear.

Allowed actions for 773

Approach at a speed that allows you to stop safely.Obey lights, barriers, gates, signs, and railway instructions.Look and listen where the crossing design requires it.Use the signed telephone or emergency instructions if a vehicle is trapped or breaks down.

Prohibited actions for 773

Do not enter a crossing unless the exit is clear.Do not drive around barriers or ignore red lights.Do not stop on tracks, between gates, or inside the crossing area.Do not assume no train or tram is coming because another vehicle crossed.

773 - Light signals ahead at crossing road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the 773 - Light signals ahead at crossing 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 'Light signals ahead at crossing' sign (773) mean?

Sign 773 warns you that there are traffic light signals ahead controlling access to a railway or tramway crossing. You should be prepared to stop if the signals indicate so, and you must ensure you have enough space to clear the crossing entirely before you proceed.

What action should I take when I see sign 773?

When you see sign 773, you must slow down and approach the crossing with caution. Always obey the traffic lights, barriers, or gates. Never enter the crossing unless you are certain you can clear it completely, as stopping on the tracks is extremely dangerous.

What are the prohibited actions at a crossing indicated by sign 773?

You must never enter the crossing unless the exit is completely clear, meaning there's space on the other side. Do not drive around barriers or ignore red lights, and never stop on the tracks or within the crossing area. Also, don't assume it's safe just because another vehicle has crossed.

What should I do if my vehicle breaks down at a crossing with light signals?

If your vehicle becomes trapped or breaks down at a crossing, use the emergency telephone provided or follow any displayed instructions immediately. Your priority is to alert the crossing operator or railway authority as quickly as possible to prevent an accident.

Are there any special considerations for larger vehicles or slow-moving traffic with sign 773?

Yes, if you are driving a long, high, slow-moving, or animal-drawn vehicle, you must plan your crossing carefully. Ensure there is ample time and space to cross safely and completely before the signals change, as these types of vehicles can take longer to clear the crossing.

Is sign 773 related to specific legislation in Great Britain?

Sign 773 is a standard warning sign used across Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) in accordance with the Highway Code. It's vital for all drivers to understand its meaning for safe passage at railway and tramway crossings, and knowing this sign is key for your driving licence theory test.

773 - Light signals ahead at crossing road sign image

A clear reference image of the 773 - Light signals ahead at crossing road sign used in Great Britain.

773 - Light signals ahead at crossing road sign

Other names for the 773 - Light signals ahead at crossing

The 773 - Light signals ahead at crossing road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Light signals ahead at crossingLight signals at crossing773 level crossing signGreat Britain level crossing signlevel crossing signs

Great Britain Level Crossing Signs road sign category

The 773 - Light signals ahead at crossing road sign is part of the Great Britain Level Crossing Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

Reinforce Your Knowledge with Similar Signs

Comparing signs like 'Light signals ahead at crossing' with others in the 'Level Crossing Signs' group helps cement your understanding and reduces errors. This focused theory test revision sharpens your traffic sign recognition skills for the exam.

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775 - Supplementary plate warning drivers to not block the level crossing road sign

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Supplementary plate informing height of overhead cables at level crossing ahead

This level-crossing sign is used where road traffic interacts with rail, tram, or crossing equipment. It may refer to barriers, gates, warning lights, telephones, overhead cables, live rails, or special instructions for certain users. Because rail vehicles cannot stop quickly, the safe response is to slow early, obey signals and barriers, and enter only when there is enough space to clear the crossing completely. It is listed in the catalogue as code 780A.

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Warning sign for a level crossing with a user operated gate ahead

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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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