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Mandatory direction of travel
The sign indicates that drivers shall leave the intersection in the direction indicated on the sign.
When you see the sign
You must turn right at the junction or at the location where the sign applies. You cannot continue straight ahead, turn left or make a U-turn.
Rules
- The sign requires you to turn right; the arrow indicates a mandatory direction, not merely a recommendation.
- The requirement applies at the junction or at the location where the sign has been installed.
- You must still comply with give-way rules, traffic lights and directions from the police or anyone else directing traffic.
- You should signal well in advance of the right turn when this may help other road users.
Tips
- Move into the correct lane early, and follow any lane markings as you approach the right turn.
- Slow down before the turn, and look out for cyclists and pedestrians who may be crossing the road you are turning into.
- Check your mirrors and blind spot before turning, particularly if there is a cycle lane along the right-hand side.
- Look at the shape of the arrow: a curved arrow means that you must turn, not simply pass on a particular side.
Common misconceptions
- Thinking that the sign merely recommends turning right. As a mandatory sign, it requires you to turn right.
- Confusing it with sign 402.1, which indicates the direction of travel to the right and has a straight arrow pointing right.
- Thinking that the sign gives you priority while turning. Give-way rules and other traffic regulations still apply.
Test yourself
Easy
What does the sign mean?
- AThe sign requires you to choose right or left.
- BThe sign requires you to drive straight ahead.
- CThe sign requires you to turn left.
- DThe sign requires you to turn right.
Medium
You encounter the sign at an intersection, but the traffic light is red. What should you do?
- AStop at the stop line and turn right when the light turns green.
- BTurn right immediately because the sign takes precedence over the light signal.
- CStop at the stop line and drive straight ahead when the light turns green.
- DStop at the stop line and turn left when the light turns green.
Hard
What is the difference between the sign in the picture and an otherwise identical mandatory sign with a straight arrow pointing right?
- AThe curved arrow requires a left turn, while the straight arrow indicates the direction of travel to the right.
- BThe curved arrow requires a right turn, while the straight arrow indicates the direction of travel to the right.
- CThe curved arrow recommends a right turn, while the straight arrow requires the direction of travel to the right.
- DThe curved arrow gives priority, while the straight arrow recommends the direction of travel to the right.
Theory test tip
Look carefully at whether the arrow is curved or straight. A curved arrow pointing right means that you must turn right, while a straight arrow pointing right may indicate the direction of travel or which side you must follow.
Did you know
The curved arrow distinguishes sign 402.4 from sign 402.1, which has a straight arrow pointing right. The sign is used, among other situations, where traffic must be able to leave a junction only by turning right for safety or traffic-management reasons.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive straight ahead if the road is clear?
No. The sign requires you to turn right, so you cannot continue straight ahead even if there is no other traffic.
Does the sign give me priority when I turn?
No. You must still comply with give-way rules, traffic lights and other traffic regulations, and you must be particularly alert for pedestrians and cyclists.
Can I turn left or make a U-turn?
No. Both would violate the requirement to turn right at the location where the sign applies.
Do I have to use my turn signal even if everyone knows I have to turn?
Yes, you should signal when this may help other road users. The sign does not replace your duty to signal the turn.
Practise for the theory test
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