Teorio
Arrow direction sign for specific types of traffic
Arrow direction sign for specific types of traffic
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When you see the Zeichen
Check whether the type of traffic shown on the signpost applies to your vehicle, for example a lorry symbol. In this case, the arrowhead shows you the direction in which the route intended for this type of traffic runs; move into the appropriate position in good time while observing the other traffic rules.
Rules
- Zeichen 421 directs specific types of traffic represented by a symbol in the direction indicated by the arrow.
- The sign is a directional sign and, on its own, neither prohibits entry nor prescribes a direction of travel.
- If your vehicle does not belong to the type of traffic shown, the special directional guidance is generally not intended for you.
- When turning as directed by the signpost, traffic lights, Vorfahrt signs, lane markings and mandatory and prohibitory signs still apply.
Tips
- Look at the symbol on the signpost first, and only then at the arrow direction.
- Do not confuse the arrowhead with Zeichen 209 for the prescribed direction of travel: Zeichen 421 provides directional guidance.
- Only move into position for the indicated direction if the guidance actually applies to your type of traffic and your destination.
- Expect the designated route to deliberately guide certain vehicles around narrow, unsuitable or heavily trafficked roads.
Common misunderstandings
- Learner drivers mistake the arrow for a mandatory turning instruction. However, Zeichen 421 is generally a directional sign, not a mandatory sign.
- The sign is confused with Zeichen 415 or 418. Those distinguish between types of roads, whereas Zeichen 421 refers to a specific type of traffic.
- Some drivers pay attention only to the arrow and overlook the symbol, which determines who the directional guidance is intended for.
Exam tip
In exam questions, the typical trap is the claim that the arrow makes the direction of travel mandatory for all vehicles. What matters is the symbol shown and the fact that the sign is classified as a directional sign; a legal obligation may only arise from additional mandatory or prohibitory signs.
Did you know
Zeichen 421 can feature different symbols, allowing the same form of directional guidance to be adapted to different types of traffic. Such special directional guidance is often used to direct certain vehicles onto routes that are more suitable for them.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to follow the arrow on Zeichen 421?
Not solely because of this sign, as it is part of the directional guidance. However, additional Vorschriftzeichen may prohibit the use of other roads or make a particular direction mandatory.
Which vehicles does the directional sign apply to?
It applies to the type of traffic identified by the symbol shown. If your vehicle does not match it, this special directional guidance is generally not relevant to you.
What is the difference between Zeichen 421 and Zeichen 415 and 418?
Zeichen 415 is an arrow signpost on federal roads, and Zeichen 418 is an arrow signpost on other roads. Zeichen 421, on the other hand, directs a specific type of traffic.
Does Zeichen 421 override other traffic rules?
No. Vorfahrt, traffic lights, lane markings, speed limits, and entry and turning prohibitions continue to apply.
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