The J1 'Poor Road Surface' traffic sign is a warning sign alerting you to damaged or uneven pavement ahead. This means you should anticipate potential hazards like potholes, ruts, or patched areas that can affect your vehicle's grip and stability. It's crucial to reduce your speed early and maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel to safely navigate these conditions, especially as a learner driver. Understanding this sign is vital for safe driving and passing your Dutch theory exam.
Learn the key details of the J1 - Poor Road Surface 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.
The J1 poor road surface sign is used to warn drivers about upcoming sections of damaged or irregular pavement that can significantly increase stopping distances. It highlights hazards such as potholes, subsidence, patched areas, or corrugations that may cause vibration, loss of grip, or skidding. You will often find it before road works, on degraded rural roads, or after winter damage. Adapt speed, following distance, and steering inputs sensitively.
This warning sign alerts you to a road section where the surface is damaged, uneven, or otherwise offers reduced grip. Potholes, ruts, loose material, and patch repairs can affect steering and braking stability, especially at higher speeds. Reduce speed in good time, hold the steering wheel firmly, and be prepared for vehicles in front to change line or brake unexpectedly.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the J1 - Poor Road Surface 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 J1 sign warns drivers that the road surface ahead is in poor condition. This could include potholes, ruts, uneven patches, or loose debris, which can impact your vehicle's handling and increase stopping distances.
Upon seeing the J1 sign, you should immediately reduce your speed. It's also advisable to increase your following distance from other vehicles and hold the steering wheel firmly. Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns as you approach the affected section of road.
Yes, the 'Poor Road Surface' sign poses increased risks for two-wheeled vehicles like motorcycles and scooters, as well as for vehicles carrying heavy loads. These vehicles are more susceptible to instability and loss of control on uneven surfaces.
A common exam trap is assuming you can maintain your speed over a poor road surface. Learners might also forget to adjust their driving behaviour early, leading to harsh braking or swerving. The theory test will assess your understanding that this sign requires proactive speed reduction and careful steering, not just a reaction once you're on the bad patch.
No, the J1 'Poor Road Surface' sign does not require you to stop. It's a warning sign, indicating that you need to adjust your speed and driving technique due to hazardous road conditions ahead. You should proceed with caution.
A clear reference image of the J1 - Poor Road Surface road sign used in the Netherlands.

The J1 - Poor Road Surface road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The J1 - Poor Road Surface road sign is part of the Warning Signs (J) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.