German road sign 501-26 is a 'Lane Transfer Board' used without oncoming traffic, indicating a two-lane situation where the left lane is diverted to the right, and the right lane continues straight ahead. This sign is crucial for managing traffic flow before roadworks or complex lane arrangements, especially on motorways and multi-lane roads. Drivers must recognise this early, adapt their speed, and choose the correct lane well in advance of the indicated changes to ensure safety and compliance.
This explanation of German road sign 501-26 helps you understand lane divergence, crucial for making safe driving decisions and passing your theory test. Master the interpretation of traffic sign explanations for a smoother licence process.
German road sign 501-26, officially designated "Überleitungstafel - ohne Gegenverkehr - 2-streifig, davon linker Fahrstreifen nach rechts übergeleitet und rechter Fahrstreifen geradeaus", 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 501-26 means "Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 2-lane, with linker lane to the right diverted rechter lane straight ahead" and is officially listed as "Überleitungstafel - ohne Gegenverkehr - 2-streifig, davon linker Fahrstreifen nach rechts übergeleitet und rechter Fahrstreifen geradeaus". 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 501-26 - Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 2-lane, with linker lane to the right diverted rechter lane straight ahead 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 501-26 indicates how lanes are arranged ahead, specifically showing that the left lane will be diverted to the right, while the right lane continues straight. Its purpose is to guide drivers to transition smoothly and safely, especially in areas with roadworks or lane closures.
You must anticipate the lane change shown by the arrows. Observe the diagram carefully, decide which lane you need to be in (left diverted right, or right straight ahead), and position your vehicle accordingly well before the actual lane merge or diversion point. Reducing speed and increasing following distance is also advised.
A common mistake is waiting too long to choose the correct lane, leading to last-minute, potentially dangerous maneuvers. Another error is ignoring the sign's instructions and continuing in a lane that is shown as ending or diverted, or trying to overtake aggressively through the changing lane configuration.
Yes, it signifies a lane arrangement where traffic is being redirected. In this specific variant (501-26), the left lane is merging to the right, implying a form of merging or lane shift where drivers in the left lane must move right, and drivers in the right lane can continue straight. It's essential to follow the arrows precisely.
Sign 501-26 works in conjunction with road markings, temporary cones, and barriers. The arrows on the sign visually represent the lane changes that are reflected by the lines and physical markers on the road. Always adhere to both the sign's instructions and the visible road markings.
A clear reference image of the 501-26 - Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 2-lane, with linker lane to the right diverted rechter lane straight ahead road sign used in Germany.

The 501-26 - Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 2-lane, with linker lane to the right diverted rechter lane straight ahead road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The 501-26 - Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 2-lane, with linker lane to the right diverted rechter lane straight ahead road sign is part of the German Traffic Control Boards category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Comparing similar road signs side-by-side is crucial for accurate theory test revision and effective sign recognition. This focused review helps solidify your understanding of traffic sign differences, reducing potential errors during your exam preparation.

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