The SIG11 Horizontal Bar Signal, often called a 'Stop bar' or 'Horizontal line signal', is a crucial traffic control sign that requires you to stop. You must halt your vehicle before the stop line or the signal itself if no line is present. This sign functions like an amber light, meaning you should only proceed if you are already so close to the signal when it changes that stopping would be dangerous.
This essential guide clarifies the critical meaning of the SIG11 Horizontal Bar Signal, ensuring you know precisely when to stop and avoid violations. Master this key road sign interpretation for your Swedish theory test revision and safe driving.
A horizontal bar signal instructs vehicles and trams to stop before the stop line, or before the signal if no line is provided. It functions similarly to an amber-style stop instruction in that a limited safety exception applies: if you have already come so far forward at the moment the signal changes from vertical bar (proceed) to horizontal bar (stop) that stopping would be dangerous, you may continue carefully. In normal circumstances, you must stop promptly and wait for the next permissive indication. The intent is to control traffic flow safely in systems using these bar signals.
Stop. You must not pass the stop line or the signal, unless you are too close to stop safely when it changes from vertical to horizontal.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the SIG11 - Horizontal Bar Signal (Stop) 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 Swedish driving theory exam in Sweden.
The primary instruction of the SIG11 Horizontal Bar Signal (Stop) is that you must stop. You need to halt your vehicle before the designated stop line or the signal itself if there's no line. It signifies a mandatory stop point for traffic control.
Yes, there is a safety exception. If the signal changes from a 'proceed' indication (like a vertical bar) to the 'stop' indication (horizontal bar) and you are already so close that stopping safely is impossible, you may continue carefully. However, this is a genuine safety measure, not a way to avoid stopping if you could do so safely.
You are prohibited from passing the stop line if you could have stopped safely. Accelerating to try and beat the stop signal is also forbidden. Entering the controlled area on a 'stop' aspect is not allowed unless the safety exception applies.
The SIG11 Horizontal Bar Signal functions similarly to a red traffic light in that it requires a stop. However, it often incorporates a phase that allows drivers already very close to the signal to proceed if stopping would be dangerous, akin to an amber warning before a red light. Always prioritise stopping safely if you have the chance.
A common mistake is misinterpreting the safety exception as a general rule to try and speed up to pass the signal. Learners might also hesitate too long, leading to a dangerous situation or failing to stop when required. Always remember: stop if you can do so safely; proceed only if stopping is genuinely dangerous due to your proximity.
A clear reference image of the SIG11 - Horizontal Bar Signal (Stop) road sign used in Sweden.

The SIG11 - Horizontal Bar Signal (Stop) road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The SIG11 - Horizontal Bar Signal (Stop) road sign is part of the Traffic Signals (L) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Mastering Swedish road signs means understanding the nuances between similar symbols. Reviewing related signs like the SIG11 Horizontal Bar Signal alongside others helps cement recognition and reduces confusion, vital for effective theory test revision. This direct traffic sign comparison is key to accurate sign recognition.

SIG10 Vertical Bar Signal: Your signal to proceed when clear.

The Red Cross traffic sign (SIG12) means your lane is closed – act immediately!

Follow the Amber Arrow: You Must Change Lane!

The Green Arrow Sign: Your Lane is Open and Ready for Traffic!

This Red Flashing Light Means You Must Stop Immediately.

What the SIG16 Red Flashing Light Traffic Sign means: You must stop!

Steady Red Light (SIG17) Means the Road is Completely Closed
Connect visual signage with essential Swedish traffic rules by exploring our curated set of practice questions and detailed road safety explanations. These resources reinforce your ability to interpret complex road situations according to Transportstyrelsen standards.
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An amber (yellow) signal instructs you to stop before the stop line. If no stop line exists, you must stop before the signal. The key exception is when you have already approached so close at the moment the light changes from green to amber that stopping would create danger, for example by causing a harsh stop that risks a rear-end collision. In that case, you may continue carefully and clear the intersection without accelerating aggressively.
This sign prohibits making a U-turn where it is placed or just before the relevant junction. It is used where U-turns would be unsafe due to limited visibility, heavy traffic, or complex junction design. The prohibition applies to the intersection(s) the sign refers to and may cover multiple locations if indicated. Drivers must not reverse direction using a U-turn and should instead continue and use a safe, permitted route to turn around.
After reviewing this complete list of Swedish road signs, deepen your understanding by exploring signs by category or practicing with simulated test questions. Solidify your recognition skills and ensure you are fully prepared for every aspect of the official driving theory exam.
All Swedish Road Signs List