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Swiss Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Prepare for junctions on main roads with two lanes using sign 4.38-1

4.38-1 - Announcement of junction on main road with two lanes (variant 1) Swiss road sign meaning

The Swiss road sign 4.38-1, also known as 'Announcement of junction on main road with two lanes (variant 1)', is a directional sign that prepares you for upcoming lane arrangements. Its purpose is to help you select the correct lane, destination, route number, or detour in advance, allowing for a smooth and safe manoeuvre. Always interpret this sign in conjunction with lane markings, traffic lights, and any supplementary panels to ensure you react appropriately.

Understanding Sign 4.38-1: Junction Announcement

This official Swiss direction sign, code 4.38-1, informs you about an upcoming junction with two lanes on the main road, helping you choose the correct lane for your destination or route. Mastering its meaning is crucial for effective theory test revision and safe navigation of Swiss traffic rules.

Definition of 4.38-1

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: 4.38-1.

Meaning of 4.38-1

The "Announcement of junction on main road with two lanes (variant 1)" sign guides drivers toward announcement of junction on main road with two lanes or explains the route arrangement ahead. Use it to choose the correct lane, destination, route number, or detour in good time. Catalogue code 4.38-1.

Allowed actions for 4.38-1

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 4.38-1

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.

4.38-1 - Announcement of junction on main road with two lanes (variant 1) road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the 4.38-1 - Announcement of junction on main road with two lanes (variant 1) 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 the 4.38-1 road sign in Switzerland?

The 4.38-1 sign's primary purpose is to announce an upcoming junction on a main road that has two lanes. It informs drivers about the route arrangement ahead, helping them choose the correct lane or destination well in advance to avoid sudden braking or lane changes.

How should I react when I see the 4.38-1 sign?

When you see sign 4.38-1, you should read the route information and destination arrows early. Plan your manoeuvre calmly, confirm that your chosen lane and vehicle category match the sign's indications, and then signal and position your vehicle smoothly. The key is to make your decision before reaching the actual junction.

What are common mistakes to avoid with the 4.38-1 sign in the theory test?

A common exam trap is reacting too late or crossing lanes abruptly after the junction information has passed. Another mistake is following an arrow or destination that doesn't align with your current lane or intended route. Always ensure your chosen path matches the sign’s guidance for your lane.

Can the interpretation of sign 4.38-1 change based on its placement or road markings?

Yes, absolutely. The sign's meaning must always be interpreted in context. The placement of the sign, lane markings on the road, traffic lights, and any supplementary panels can all influence how you should interpret and react to the 4.38-1 sign. Always consider the entire traffic situation.

What actions are prohibited when dealing with sign 4.38-1?

You are prohibited from crossing lanes abruptly after missing the direction information or if you haven't processed it in time. It is also forbidden to follow an arrow or destination that does not match your lane, your intended route, or your vehicle category. Late decisions and erratic manoeuvres are to be avoided.

4.38-1 - Announcement of junction on main road with two lanes (variant 1) road sign image

A clear reference image of the 4.38-1 - Announcement of junction on main road with two lanes (variant 1) road sign used in Switzerland.

4.38-1 - Announcement of junction on main road with two lanes (variant 1) road sign

Other names for the 4.38-1 - Announcement of junction on main road with two lanes (variant 1)

The 4.38-1 - Announcement of junction on main road with two lanes (variant 1) road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Announcement of junction on main road with two lanes (variant 1)Announcement of junction on main road with two lanes4.38-1 direction sign4.38-1 Swiss direction signdirection signs

Swiss Direction Signs road sign category

The 4.38-1 - Announcement of junction on main road with two lanes (variant 1) road sign is part of the Swiss Direction Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

Reinforce Your Road Sign Knowledge

Mastering Swiss road signs involves understanding subtle differences. Reviewing similar traffic signs side-by-side aids recognition and sharpens your theory test revision for fewer mistakes on exam day.

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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After reviewing the full list of Swiss road signs, delve deeper into specific categories, practice recognition with quizzes, or explore detailed explanations for each sign. Continue your comprehensive preparation for the official theory driving test.

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