German road sign 501-85, also known as an 'Überleitungstafel', is crucial for managing traffic flow on multi-lane roads, especially before roadworks. This sign indicates a specific lane arrangement where three left lanes are diverted to the right, and the right lane shifts to the left, all without oncoming traffic. Drivers must anticipate this change early, adjust their speed, and select the appropriate lane well in advance of the controlled area to ensure safe passage and avoid exam errors.
This sign explains a specific lane transfer situation where four lanes are reconfigured, requiring careful attention to road markings and your chosen path. Mastering this type of road sign interpretation is crucial for passing your theory test and understanding German traffic rules.
German road sign 501-85, officially designated "Überleitungstafel - ohne Gegenverkehr - 4-streifig, davon die drei linken Fahrstreifen nach rechts übergeleitet und rechter Fahrstreifen nach links verschwenkt", belongs to the traffic control boards group. It shows how lanes are arranged, shifted, narrowed, separated, or merged, usually before a roadworks or high-speed lane-change area. You may see it in motorways, multilane roads, temporary roadworks, lane closures, lane shifts, merge areas, and construction-stage traffic management, depending on how the road authority has arranged the location. Any left reference should be read as part of the direction, road side, lane arrangement, or placement shown by the sign. Any right reference should be read as part of the direction, road side, lane arrangement, or placement shown by the sign. The practical meaning is not just the symbol itself, but the driving decision it triggers: adjust speed, position, priority, route choice, stopping behaviour, or attention before the situation becomes urgent. For learners, the key skill is translating the arrows into early lane choice rather than reacting at the last moment. Always combine the sign with road markings, traffic lights, police instructions, and any supplementary plates at the same location.
German road sign 501-85 means "Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with drei linken lane to the right diverted rechter lane to the left verschwenkt" and is officially listed as "Überleitungstafel - ohne Gegenverkehr - 4-streifig, davon die drei linken Fahrstreifen nach rechts übergeleitet und rechter Fahrstreifen nach links verschwenkt". In practice, it tells drivers to recognise the situation early, adapt before reaching the controlled area, and check whether markings or supplementary plates change how the rule applies.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the 501-85 - Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with drei linken lane to the right diverted rechter lane to the left verschwenkt 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 German driving theory exam in Germany.
Sign 501-85 indicates a lane shift on a 4-lane road. It shows that the three lanes on the left are being diverted to the right, while the rightmost lane is shifted to the left. You must recognise this early and position your vehicle in the correct lane before you reach the diversion point.
Reacting early is vital because the lane configuration changes significantly. Waiting until the last moment to choose a lane can lead to dangerous situations, sudden braking, or incorrect lane usage, which are common causes of accidents and theory test failures. Always be prepared to adjust your speed and lane well ahead of the area indicated by the sign.
A common mistake is not paying attention to the arrows until the last moment, leading to abrupt lane changes or driving into a lane that is ending. Another error is ignoring temporary markings or barriers that accompany the sign, as these form part of the traffic management system. Always combine the sign's information with visible road markings and guidance.
Sign 501-85 is specific to a 4-lane road where three left lanes shift right and the right lane shifts left, without oncoming traffic. Other variants of lane transfer boards exist for different numbers of lanes or different diversion patterns. Always read the arrows and accompanying road markings precisely as shown for the specific situation.
If you cannot immediately move to the correct lane, you should slow down to match the traffic flow and maintain a safe following distance. Continue to look for an opportunity to safely merge into the indicated lane, using your turn signals. Never force your way into a lane, especially when other drivers are also reacting to the lane shift.
A clear reference image of the 501-85 - Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with drei linken lane to the right diverted rechter lane to the left verschwenkt road sign used in Germany.
The 501-85 - Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with drei linken lane to the right diverted rechter lane to the left verschwenkt road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The 501-85 - Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with drei linken lane to the right diverted rechter lane to the left verschwenkt road sign is part of the German Traffic Control Boards category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Enhance your German driving theory test preparation by reviewing signs similar to this one. Understanding subtle differences between traffic sign comparison and recognition patterns prevents confusion and builds confidence for your exam.
Understand the Lane Transfer Board (501-11) for Shifting Lanes Left Safely
Navigate lane changes safely with the German Sign 501-14 Lane Transfer Board
Understand Lane Transfer Sign 501-16: Prepare for Diverted Lanes Ahead
Understand German Lane Transfer Board 501-19: Shifting Lanes Ahead
Master lane changes with German road sign 501-26 for lane transfers.
Understand the Lane Transfer Board (501-29) for Lane Adjustments
Navigate Lane Changes Safely with the German 4-Lane Transfer Board (Sign 501-50)
Master German Sign 501-51: Understanding Lane Transfers and Lane Divergences
Deepen your understanding of specific road sign categories or test your knowledge with practice questions. Explore our themed sign groups for targeted study or jump into quizzes to reinforce your recognition skills for the official German theory exam.
All German Road Signs List