When the 'Road Works Ahead' sign is displayed, you will need to be more watchful and look for additional signs providing more specific instructions. Observe all signs - they are there for your safety and the safety of road workers.

• You MUST NOT exceed any temporary maximum speed limit
• Use your mirrors and get into the correct lane for your vehicle in good time and as signs direct
• Do not switch lanes to overtake queuing traffic
• Take extra care near cyclists and motorcyclists as they are vulnerable to skidding on grit, mud or other debris at road works
• Where lanes are restricted due to road works, merge in turn (see Rule 134)
• Do not drive through an area marked off by traffic cones
• Watch out for traffic entering or leaving the works area, but do not be distracted by what is going on there. Concentrate on the road ahead, not the road works
• Bear in mind that the road ahead may be obstructed by the works or by slow moving or stationary traffic
• Keep a safe distance - there could be queues in front

To obtain further information about road works see 'Other information'.

[Law RTRA sect 16]

Take special care on motorways and other high-speed dual carriageways.

• One or more lanes may be closed to traffic and a lower speed limit may apply
• Works vehicles that are slow moving or stationary with a large 'Keep Left' or 'Keep Right' sign on the back are sometimes used to close lanes for repairs, and a flashing light arrow may also be used to make the works vehicle more conspicuous from a distance and give earlier warning to drivers that they need to move over to the next lane
• Check mirrors, slow down and change lanes if necessary
• Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front (see Rule 126)

Contraflow systems mean that you may be travelling in a narrower lane than normal and with no permanent barrier between you and oncoming traffic. The hard shoulder may be used for traffic, but be aware that there may be broken-down vehicles ahead of you. Keep a good distance from the vehicle ahead and observe any temporary speed limits.