---
title: "Chicane Ahead Sign Meaning | UK Road Signs | Fast Track"
url: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/theory/road-signs/chicane-ahead
description: "Find out what the chicane ahead sign means, how to drive through one safely, and how it features in the theory test."
lang: en
---

# Chicane ahead — UK road sign

A warning sign showing a double bend created by a chicane, used to slow traffic through a series of tight curves.

Image: Chicane ahead — red, white and black triangle UK road sign (https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/signs/chicane-ahead.svg)

Chicanes are artificial bends built into a road to force drivers to reduce speed by physically altering the direction of travel.

This sign warns of the sequence of sharp turns so drivers are not caught out.

## What this sign means

The sign shows a zigzag or double bend arrow symbol representing the alternating left and right turns of a chicane.

It is commonly used alongside build outs or planters that narrow the road and change its direction.

## What to do when you see it

Slow down before the first bend and steer smoothly through the sequence without cutting corners.

- Reduce speed well before entering the chicane
- Position the vehicle to take a smooth path through each bend
- Watch for oncoming traffic that may need extra room in a narrow chicane
- Avoid harsh steering or braking mid bend

## How this sign is tested

Theory test questions may ask you to identify this sign or choose the safest approach speed for a chicane.

It also appears in hazard perception scenarios involving reduced visibility around the bends.

## Common mistakes

Entering a chicane too fast and having to brake mid bend is a common and dangerous error.

Drivers sometimes misjudge the width available and clip kerbs or planters within the chicane.

## Test yourself on this one

Road and traffic signs is the biggest category in the question bank with 102 questions, and signs turn up inside other categories too. Work through them free, no sign-up needed.

Practise road sign questions (https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/theory/practice)

## Frequently asked questions

What is a chicane

A chicane is a series of tight bends built into a road, often using kerbs or planters, to force vehicles to slow down.

How fast should I go through a chicane

Slow enough to steer smoothly through each bend without needing to brake sharply mid turn.

Do chicanes have priority rules

Some narrow chicanes only allow one vehicle at a time, so check for give way signs or markings.

## Passed your theory? Get the practical booked

Your theory certificate lasts two years. Most learners who use it quickly do it with an intensive course — a block of hours with a DVSA approved instructor and a practical test at the end, instead of one lesson a week for months.

Intensive course prices: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/pricing
All courses: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/courses
Crash courses: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/crash-courses
Automatic lessons: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/driving-lessons/automatic
Areas we cover: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/driving-lessons-in
Driving test centres: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/driving-test-centres
How it works: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/how-it-works
Test pass guarantee: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/test-pass-guarantee

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