The C24a-3 sign indicates a dedicated bus lane that operates in the opposite direction to the normal flow of traffic on a one-way street or section. As an information sign, it helps drivers plan their route early and understand the road layout. Always observe this sign in conjunction with road markings and any regulatory signs to ensure you understand specific lane restrictions or directions, especially as you approach junctions or changes in traffic flow.
This C24a-3 sign indicates a bus lane operating in the opposite direction to general traffic, a crucial detail for safe navigation and theory test revision. Recognizing and correctly interpreting this road sign meaning is vital for all drivers in France.
Information signs make the road environment easier to interpret before a driver has to act. This sign may identify a one-way street, lane arrangement, pedestrian crossing, toll facility, tunnel, motorway, expressway, escape lane, or route condition. It should be read with markings, signals, and regulatory signs before changing speed, lane, or route. Official French sign code: C24a-3.
"Contra-flow bus lane" gives official information about road layout, direction, lanes, facilities, restrictions, tolls, tunnels, motorways, or traffic conditions. It helps drivers plan early and avoid sudden manoeuvres.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the C24a-3 - Contra-flow bus lane 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 French driving theory exam in France.
The C24a-3 sign is an information sign designed to alert drivers to a bus lane that runs in the opposite direction to the general traffic flow. Its purpose is to inform drivers about the road layout, helping them to anticipate and plan their driving behaviour accordingly to avoid confusion or dangerous manoeuvres.
You don't necessarily need to change your immediate action, but you must understand the road ahead. The C24a-3 sign informs you about a specific lane arrangement. Pay close attention to road markings, traffic signals, and any accompanying regulatory signs which will dictate precisely how you should proceed, such as which lanes are open to general traffic and which are exclusively for buses.
A common trap is misinterpreting the sign as a prohibition for general traffic, when it simply denotes a special lane. Learners might also fail to notice follow-up signs or markings that clarify the lane's usage and how it affects general traffic. It's crucial to remember that while it's an information sign, it signals a specific traffic arrangement that requires careful observation of all related signals and markings.
A contra-flow bus lane is not inherently dangerous if drivers are aware of it and follow the rules. The C24a-3 sign serves to provide that awareness. The danger arises if drivers ignore the sign, don't pay attention to road markings, or make sudden manoeuvres. Always treat such signs as instructions to be vigilant about the specific road layout and the movement of buses in an unexpected direction.
'Contra-flow' means that traffic moves in the opposite direction on a particular lane compared to the main flow of traffic. In the case of the C24a-3 sign, it specifically identifies a lane designated for buses that runs against the direction of travel for other vehicles, often found on one-way streets to improve bus service efficiency.
A clear reference image of the C24a-3 - Contra-flow bus lane road sign used in France.

The C24a-3 - Contra-flow bus lane road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The C24a-3 - Contra-flow bus lane road sign is part of the France Information Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Reviewing closely related French road signs, like this contra-flow bus lane sign, sharpens your recognition skills and reduces confusion. Effective traffic sign comparison is key for your theory test revision and safe driving.

The Autoroute-F sign indicates you are on or approaching a French motorway.

Prepare for the 'End of Motorway' sign to safely transition off the autoroute.

The C112 'End of Tunnel' sign informs you about upcoming road conditions or layout changes.

The C113 Cycle Route sign informs you about road layout and facilities ahead.

The C114 'End of Cycle Route' sign signals the end of a designated cycle path.

The C115 sign indicates a dedicated route for pedestrians and cyclists.

The C116 sign marks the end of a dedicated pedestrian and cycle route.
Now that you've reviewed the full list of French road signs, enhance your understanding. Explore signs grouped by specific categories for deeper insights, test your recognition with practice questions, and solidify your knowledge for the Code de la route exam.
Browse All French Road Signs