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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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.
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.
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.

Prepare for Town Entry with the 4.27 Direction Sign

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

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

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

Navigating with the Expressway Route Signpost (4.31)

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

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

Follow This Sign: Detour to Your Destination Ahead
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.
View All Swiss Road Signs