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Dutch Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Know Exactly How Many Lanes Continue Ahead with the L7 Sign

L7 - Number of Through Lanes Dutch road sign meaning

The L7 'Number of Through Lanes' traffic sign is an informational sign designed to guide you through complex road layouts, particularly before junctions or where lanes diverge. It clearly indicates the number of lanes that will continue straight ahead, helping you choose the correct lane in advance and avoid last-minute manoeuvres. Understanding this sign ensures smoother traffic flow and is crucial for safe driving and passing your Dutch driving theory exam.

About the L7 - Number of Through Lanes road sign

Learn the key details of the L7 - Number of Through Lanes 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 L7

The number of through lanes sign is usually placed before complex junctions, where additional entry and exit lanes can make the layout difficult to read. It shows how many lanes continue over a longer distance so that drivers do not stay unnecessarily in an ending lane or weave at the last moment. By following the indication you can choose a suitable through lane early and keep your driving line predictable.

Meaning of L7

This sign indicates how many lanes of traffic continue straight ahead without exiting or ending. It helps you decide which lane is most suitable for your speed, destination and vehicle type, and encourages an even distribution of traffic so that queues are reduced and lane changes close to interchanges become less necessary.

Allowed actions for L7

Select a through lane that fits your intended route in good timeStay in the chosen through lane instead of changing repeatedlyMatch your speed to the general flow within that laneMove to a different lane early if you intend to exit laterUse mirror and shoulder checks before any lane change you make

Prohibited actions for L7

Changing lanes abruptly to chase a slightly faster through laneRemaining in a lane that clearly ends instead of merging when safeBlocking others who signal that they need to move into a through laneUsing the hard shoulder or exit lane as an extra through laneWeaving across several lanes near the interchange to correct poor planning

L7 - Number of Through Lanes road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the L7 - Number of Through Lanes 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 does the L7 'Number of Through Lanes' sign tell me?

The L7 sign indicates precisely how many lanes proceed straight ahead without exiting the current road. It helps you anticipate the road ahead and position yourself correctly, especially when the number of available through lanes changes.

Why is the L7 sign important for driving?

This sign is vital for managing lane choice and reducing congestion. By showing the number of continuing lanes, it allows drivers to distribute themselves evenly, preventing bottlenecks and promoting smoother traffic flow. It helps you avoid being in a lane that unexpectedly ends.

What should I do when I see the L7 sign?

When you see the L7 sign, note the number of lanes indicated as continuing ahead. Plan your route and lane choice accordingly. If you intend to go straight, ensure you are in one of the indicated through lanes and avoid lanes that are about to exit.

Are there any specific actions I should avoid when encountering the L7 sign?

Yes, you should avoid sudden lane changes to switch to what appears to be a faster lane indicated by the sign, as this can be dangerous. Also, avoid actions that intentionally block lane balance or create congestion. Always follow lane-control signals if present.

Does the L7 sign affect my speed or priority?

The L7 sign itself doesn't directly dictate your speed or grant priority. However, it indirectly influences your behaviour by prompting you to select the appropriate lane, which can affect your speed relative to other traffic and your positioning for future priority situations.

Can I change lanes after passing the L7 sign?

Yes, you can generally change lanes after passing the L7 sign, provided it is safe and permitted by other traffic signs or road markings. The L7 sign mainly informs you about the number of lanes continuing straight, helping you choose your lane before you reach the point where choices become limited.

L7 - Number of Through Lanes road sign image

A clear reference image of the L7 - Number of Through Lanes road sign used in the Netherlands.

L7 - Number of Through Lanes road sign

Other names for the L7 - Number of Through Lanes

The L7 - Number of Through Lanes road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Through lane countContinuing lanesLane availability

Information Signs (L) road sign category

The L7 - Number of Through Lanes road sign is part of the Information Signs (L) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

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