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Swiss Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Know the meaning of the Junction Announcement with Left Route Restriction sign (4.40) in Switzerland.

4.40 - Announcement of junction on main road with restriction for the left route (here: maximal width) Swiss road sign meaning

This Swiss direction sign, code 4.40, announces an upcoming junction on the main road, specifically indicating a restriction on the left route, such as a maximum width limit. It's crucial to read this sign well in advance to select the correct lane, destination, or detour without abrupt manoeuvres. Always confirm your intended path aligns with the sign's guidance and your vehicle's category.

Understanding Sign 4.40: Junction Announcement with Left Route Restriction

This directional sign announces a junction ahead on a main road, specifically detailing a restriction for the left route. Understanding its specific meaning is crucial for safe navigation and passing your Swiss theory test, ensuring you correctly interpret traffic flow and lane requirements.

Definition of 4.40

This direction sign is part of Swiss route guidance. It is meant to be read before the decision point so drivers can select a lane, exit, route number, destination, detour, or road category without sudden steering or braking. The safe response is to plan the manoeuvre calmly, confirm that the lane and vehicle category match the sign, and avoid crossing lanes late. Official catalogue code: 4.40.

Meaning of 4.40

The "Announcement of junction on main road with restriction for the left route (here: maximal width)" sign guides drivers toward announcement of junction on main road with restriction for the left route or explains the route arrangement ahead. Use it to choose the correct lane, destination, route number, or detour in good time. Catalogue code 4.40.

Allowed actions for 4.40

Read the route information early enough to choose the correct lane, destination, route, exit, or detour.Signal and position the vehicle smoothly after confirming the sign matches your route and vehicle category.

Prohibited actions for 4.40

Do not cross lanes abruptly after missing the direction information.Do not follow an arrow or destination that does not match your lane, route, or vehicle category.

4.40 - Announcement of junction on main road with restriction for the left route (here: maximal width) road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the 4.40 - Announcement of junction on main road with restriction for the left route (here: maximal width) 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 Swiss driving theory exam in Switzerland.

What is the main purpose of Swiss road sign 4.40?

Sign 4.40 is a direction sign that informs drivers about an upcoming junction on the main road, highlighting a specific restriction on the left-hand route, often related to maximum width. Its purpose is to allow drivers to choose the correct lane or destination well in advance.

How should I react when I see sign 4.40?

Upon seeing sign 4.40, you should immediately assess your route and destination. Plan your lane change or exit smoothly if the sign indicates your intended path. It's essential to confirm that your lane and vehicle are permitted on the indicated route before reaching the junction.

What does 'restriction for the left route (here: maximal width)' mean on sign 4.40?

This means that while the junction may offer multiple routes, the path to the left has a specific limitation, most commonly a restriction on the maximum width of vehicles allowed. Other restrictions like height or weight are also possible, depending on what the sign specifically denotes or supplementary panels indicate.

What are common exam traps related to sign 4.40?

A common trap is failing to notice or react to the sign in time, leading to sudden lane changes at the junction. Learners might also incorrectly assume the restriction applies to all routes, or they might not check if their vehicle's dimensions fit the indicated width limit on the left route.

Can I still use the left route if my vehicle is wide?

No, if sign 4.40 specifically indicates a 'maximal width' restriction for the left route, and your vehicle exceeds that width, you must not use that route. You would need to choose an alternative lane or route that does not have this restriction, or a different exit if applicable.

Should I always follow the arrow on sign 4.40?

You should only follow the arrow on sign 4.40 if it corresponds to your intended destination, route, or vehicle category. If the sign indicates a restriction on a particular route (like the left one) and your destination is that way, ensure your vehicle complies with the restriction. Otherwise, choose a different indicated route or lane.

4.40 - Announcement of junction on main road with restriction for the left route (here: maximal width) road sign image

A clear reference image of the 4.40 - Announcement of junction on main road with restriction for the left route (here: maximal width) road sign used in Switzerland.

4.40 - Announcement of junction on main road with restriction for the left route (here: maximal width) road sign

Other names for the 4.40 - Announcement of junction on main road with restriction for the left route (here: maximal width)

The 4.40 - Announcement of junction on main road with restriction for the left route (here: maximal width) road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Announcement of junction on main road with restriction for the left route (here: maximal width)Announcement of junction on main road with restriction for the left route4.40 direction sign4.40 Swiss direction signdirection signs

Swiss Direction Signs road sign category

The 4.40 - Announcement of junction on main road with restriction for the left route (here: maximal width) road sign is part of the Swiss Direction Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

Reinforce Your Road Sign Knowledge

Reviewing related road signs side-by-side helps cement your understanding and reduces confusion during your theory test revision. Comparing similar traffic signs and understanding their distinctions is key to accurate sign recognition and successful exam preparation.

4.27 - Entry of town/village on main road road sign

Entry of town/village on main road

Prepare for Town Entry with the 4.27 Direction Sign

Swiss Direction Signs4.27
4.28 - End of town/village on main road road sign

End of town/village on main road

Prepare to exit town limits with the 'End of town/village on main road' sign (4.28).

Swiss Direction Signs4.28
4.29 - Entry of town/village on minor road road sign

Entry of town/village on minor road

Entry of Town/Village on Minor Road Sign (4.29): Navigate Your Route Ahead

Swiss Direction Signs4.29
4.30 - End of town/village on minor road road sign

End of town/village on minor road

Sign 4.30: Navigating the End of a Town or Village on a Minor Road

Swiss Direction Signs4.30
4.31 - Signpost to destination via motor-/expressway route road sign

Signpost to destination via motor-/expressway route

Navigating with the Expressway Route Signpost (4.31)

Swiss Direction Signs4.31
4.32 - Signpost to destination via main route road sign

Signpost to destination via main route

Prepare to choose your lane with the Signpost to Destination via Main Route (4.32).

Swiss Direction Signs4.32
4.33 - Signpost to destination via minor route road sign

Signpost to destination via minor route

Navigate your route with the Signpost to destination via minor route sign (4.33).

Swiss Direction Signs4.33
4.34 - Detour to destination to be followed road sign

Detour to destination to be followed

Follow This Sign: Detour to Your Destination Ahead

Swiss Direction Signs4.34

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