The J31 'Crosswind' traffic sign is a warning sign used in the Netherlands to alert drivers to areas where strong lateral winds are common. You'll typically see this sign on bridges, viaducts, or in open plains where gusts can push your vehicle sideways. It's crucial to reduce your speed and maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel to ensure stability, especially if you're driving a high-sided vehicle or towing a trailer. Cyclists and motorcyclists are also particularly vulnerable to these conditions, so be aware of them.
Learn the key details of the J31 - Crosswind road sign, including its function, what it communicates to drivers, and how it applies in real traffic situations in the Netherlands. Use this overview to understand the sign clearly and recognise it confidently during the Dutch driving theory exam.
This warning sign shows a windsock and indicates a section of road exposed to strong crosswinds that can push vehicles sideways. It enforces reduced speed, firm steering control, and increased lateral space to vulnerable road users. The sign is often used on bridges, viaducts, open polder landscapes, and near coastal areas, where gusts can be sudden and especially dangerous for high-sided vehicles, trailers, and cyclists.
This sign warns that strong crosswinds may affect vehicle stability on the road ahead, particularly on bridges and open areas. Drivers must reduce speed, hold the steering wheel firmly, and leave extra lateral space for high-sided vehicles, trailers, cyclists, and motorcyclists that may be blown sideways or suddenly change position.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the J31 - Crosswind 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 Dutch driving theory exam in the Netherlands.
The J31 sign warns drivers of potential strong lateral winds or gusts that can affect vehicle stability. It's an advisory sign to make you more alert and prepared for sudden pushes sideways, particularly in exposed areas.
While the sign itself doesn't impose strict prohibitions like 'no overtaking,' it strongly implies that actions like overtaking high-sided vehicles, which are themselves more susceptible to crosswinds, could be dangerous. It also implicitly prohibits a loose grip on the steering wheel, as a firm grip is necessary for control.
When you see the J31 sign, you should reduce your speed to maintain better control. Increase your lateral clearance from other vehicles, especially high-sided ones. Be prepared to anticipate and counter sudden gusts of wind, particularly when passing through exposed sections or exiting sheltered areas.
Yes, high-sided vehicles like vans, trucks, and motorhomes are particularly vulnerable to crosswinds because the wind acts on a larger surface area. Trailers and caravans are also highly susceptible. Cyclists and motorcyclists must also be extremely cautious, as even moderate gusts can cause instability.
Yes, the J31 'Crosswind' warning can sometimes be displayed on dynamic electronic signs. These signs might provide real-time information about the intensity of the wind or indicate specific areas where crosswinds are currently a significant hazard.
A clear reference image of the J31 - Crosswind road sign used in the Netherlands.
The J31 - Crosswind road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The J31 - Crosswind road sign is part of the Warning Signs (J) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.