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Dutch Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Follow the K9 sign for your official alternative route when your usual path is closed.

K9 - Diversion with Alternative Route (Non-Motorway) Dutch road sign meaning

The K9 Diversion with Alternative Route sign is an important information sign you'll see when road works, incidents, or other closures mean your normal route is blocked. It clearly indicates a planned detour and guides you along the official alternative route using arrows and route letters or symbols. Following these signs ensures you stay on a route designed to manage traffic flow effectively, especially during disruptions. Always follow the indicated diversion until you see the 'end of diversion' signs.

About the K9 - Diversion with Alternative Route (Non-Motorway) road sign

Learn the key details of the K9 - Diversion with Alternative Route (Non-Motorway) 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.

Definition of K9

An advance diversion sign on a non-motorway is placed before the point where traffic has to leave the normal route because of roadworks, incidents, or closures. It introduces the official detour, often with a specific diversion symbol that is repeated along the alternative route. Drivers are expected to read the sign early, change lanes or direction calmly, and follow the marked diversion until the end of the disruption.

Meaning of K9

This sign announces in advance that your usual route on a non-motorway road is disrupted and that a signed diversion is provided. It shows the detour direction using arrows, symbols, or route letters so that you can leave the main line in time. By following the indicated diversion consistently, you avoid blocked sections and unnecessary searching.

Allowed actions for K9

Prepare to leave your usual route at the indicated pointFollow the official diversion symbols along the alternative routeAdjust your speed and lane position in good time for the detourResume your normal route only where the end of diversion is signedCheck navigation or traffic information when safely stopped off the carriageway

Prohibited actions for K9

Ignoring the signed diversion and forcing your way toward a closed sectionMaking U turns in narrow carriageways to search for shortcutsStopping in live traffic to reconsider your routeUsing unsuitable local streets as an unsanctioned bypass for the closure

K9 - Diversion with Alternative Route (Non-Motorway) road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the K9 - Diversion with Alternative Route (Non-Motorway) 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.

What is the main purpose of the K9 diversion sign?

The K9 sign's purpose is to guide drivers onto a pre-planned alternative route when their normal road ahead is closed. It ensures a consistent and managed detour, preventing drivers from taking unpredictable shortcuts and helping to maintain traffic flow.

How should I react when I see the K9 'Diversion with Alternative Route' sign?

When you see the K9 sign, you must follow the arrows and route symbols it indicates. These signs will lead you along the designated diversion route. Do not attempt to find your own shortcut; stick to the official alternative until you encounter signs indicating the end of the diversion.

Can I use my GPS or navigation system instead of the K9 diversion signs?

While GPS can be useful, the K9 diversion signs indicate the officially planned and managed route. In situations with road works, the GPS might not be updated with the latest closure details or may suggest routes that aren't suitable for the diverted traffic. It's best practice to follow the signed diversion route provided by the K9 signs.

What if I'm tempted to ignore the diversion and use local streets?

Ignoring the K9 diversion and using local streets to shortcut is a common prohibited action. It can lead to congestion in residential areas, create safety hazards for local residents, and may even result in fines. Always follow the official detour indicated by the K9 signs for efficient and safe traffic management.

What does it mean if the diversion symbols are temporary route numbers?

Temporary diversion symbols might replace standard route numbers when the diversion is in place. This means you should follow these specific temporary markers consistently. They are part of the official diversion plan and will lead you back to your original route or towards your destination once the diversion ends.

When can I resume my normal route after seeing a K9 sign?

You can resume your normal route only after you see specific signs indicating the 'end of diversion'. The K9 signs and their associated route symbols are in effect for the entire duration of the detour, so continue following them until you are formally released from the diversion.

K9 - Diversion with Alternative Route (Non-Motorway) road sign image

A clear reference image of the K9 - Diversion with Alternative Route (Non-Motorway) road sign used in the Netherlands.

K9 - Diversion with Alternative Route (Non-Motorway) road sign

Other names for the K9 - Diversion with Alternative Route (Non-Motorway)

The K9 - Diversion with Alternative Route (Non-Motorway) road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Detour aheadOfficial diversion routeAlternative route panelWorks diversion

Direction & Route Guidance (K) road sign category

The K9 - Diversion with Alternative Route (Non-Motorway) road sign is part of the Direction & Route Guidance (K) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

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