German road sign 511-23, officially 'Verschwenkungstafel - ohne Gegenverkehr - 4-streifig nach rechts', is a traffic control board that guides you through lane arrangements. This specific variant indicates a lane shift or merge for four lanes to the right, typically found before roadworks or complex lane changes on motorways and multi-lane roads. It's vital to recognise this sign early, adapt your speed, and choose the correct lane well in advance to navigate the situation safely and successfully pass your theory exam.
This essential road sign explanation covers the 'Lane Shift Board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane to the right' and helps you prepare for lane changes. Master this sign's meaning for your German theory test revision, ensuring safe navigation through roadworks and traffic shifts.
German road sign 511-23, officially designated "Verschwenkungstafel - ohne Gegenverkehr - 4-streifig nach rechts", 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 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 511-23 means "Lane shift board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane to the right" and is officially listed as "Verschwenkungstafel - ohne Gegenverkehr - 4-streifig nach rechts". 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 511-23 - Lane shift board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane to the right 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 511-23, the 'Lane shift board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane to the right', aims to inform drivers about an upcoming change in lane configuration. It signals that lanes are being shifted or merged, and in this case, four lanes are directed to the right. This requires drivers to prepare for a lane change or adjustment to avoid confusion and potential hazards.
Upon seeing sign 511-23, you should immediately assess the upcoming lane arrangement. Look for road markings and any supplementary signs to understand precisely how the lanes are shifting to the right. Early recognition is key; start adjusting your speed and positioning, and select your intended lane well before reaching the actual merge or taper point.
A common trap is waiting too long to decide which lane to use. Drivers might also ignore the sign, assuming they can continue straight, or attempt to overtake aggressively through the narrowed or shifting lanes. Remember, this sign is about planned lane changes and adjustments, not last-minute decisions or risky maneuvers.
Yes, sign 511-23 indicates a lane shift or merge. The arrows on the sign will clarify which lanes are continuing, ending, or being diverted. You must follow the direction indicated by the arrows and road markings. Never continue in a lane that the sign or associated markings show as closed or ending.
The 'without oncoming traffic' part of the sign's title and designation specifies that this particular lane shift scenario does not involve vehicles coming from the opposite direction. This usually implies it's on a divided highway, a one-way street, or a section where traffic flows are physically separated, simplifying the lane change maneuver compared to situations with potential oncoming traffic.
A clear reference image of the 511-23 - Lane shift board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane to the right road sign used in Germany.

The 511-23 - Lane shift board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane to the right road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The 511-23 - Lane shift board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane to the right road sign is part of the German Traffic Control Boards category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Master German road signs by comparing similar ones. Understanding subtle differences helps with accurate recognition and fewer mistakes during your driving theory test revision. Explore our comprehensive traffic sign comparison tool to prepare effectively.

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