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Dutch Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Open Extra Lane: Use this Lane During Peak Hours!

C23-01 - Rush-Hour Lane Open Dutch road sign meaning

The C23-01 Rush-Hour Lane Open sign indicates that an additional lane, often the hard shoulder, is now available for traffic to help ease congestion during busy periods. This dynamic traffic management system allows for increased road capacity when needed. When you see this sign illuminated, it means you can use the indicated lane as a normal traffic lane, but always pay close attention to any variable speed limits or lane control signals displayed above the carriageway. Remember, this lane is only active during specified peak times.

About the C23-01 - Rush-Hour Lane Open road sign

Learn the key details of the C23-01 - Rush-Hour Lane Open 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 C23-01

A rectangular sign with a white downward arrow over a lane indicates that the rush hour lane or shoulder is opened to general traffic under dynamic traffic management. It is used on busy roads and autosnelweg corridors during peak periods to increase capacity. The sign always works together with lane control signals and speed displays above or beside the carriageway.

Meaning of C23-01

This sign shows that the rush hour lane or hard shoulder is temporarily open as an extra traffic lane. You may drive in this lane as in a normal lane, while carefully following the lane control signals and variable speed limits. Use the lane to improve traffic flow, but always keep safe distances and be prepared to return to the regular lanes.

Allowed actions for C23-01

Use the rush hour lane when lane signals show it is openMerge into the rush hour lane only at signed entry sectionsFollow the variable speed limit shown above the laneMaintain safe following distance while using the laneReturn to a regular lane where arrows or markings indicate the end

Prohibited actions for C23-01

Enter the rush hour lane when a red cross is shown above itStop or park in the rush hour lane without an emergencyUse the lane outside periods when it is indicated as openOvertake aggressively and force a late merge into regular lanesIgnore reduced variable speeds displayed for the open lane

C23-01 - Rush-Hour Lane Open road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the C23-01 - Rush-Hour Lane Open 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 C23-01 'Rush-Hour Lane Open' sign mean?

The C23-01 sign means that an extra lane, like the hard shoulder, is open for use by drivers. This is typically implemented during peak traffic hours to increase road capacity and reduce congestion. You should treat it as a normal traffic lane when this sign is active.

When can I use the extra lane indicated by the C23-01 sign?

You can use the lane when the C23-01 sign is displayed, indicating it's open to traffic. This system is dynamic, meaning the lane is only open during specific periods, usually rush hours. Always check for associated overhead signals for speed limits and lane instructions.

What should I NOT do when the C23-01 sign is active?

You should not stop unnecessarily in the open lane, ignore any speed limits or lane control signals shown on overhead gantries, or use the lane outside of the active periods when the sign indicates it's closed. The lane is for driving, not for stopping.

Are there any specific rules to follow when using a rush-hour lane in the Netherlands?

Yes, while the C23-01 sign permits you to use the extra lane, you must always adhere to any variable speed limits displayed on overhead signs. Also, be aware of merging traffic when entering or exiting this lane, and do not use it if the sign is not illuminated.

What is the purpose of 'hard shoulder running' or 'peak lane open' signs like C23-01?

'Hard shoulder running' or 'peak lane open' signs, such as C23-01, are part of dynamic traffic management strategies. Their main purpose is to increase the available road space and improve traffic flow during predictable periods of high demand, like morning and evening rush hours, thereby reducing travel times and easing congestion.

C23-01 - Rush-Hour Lane Open road sign image

A clear reference image of the C23-01 - Rush-Hour Lane Open road sign used in the Netherlands.

C23-01 - Rush-Hour Lane Open road sign

Other names for the C23-01 - Rush-Hour Lane Open

The C23-01 - Rush-Hour Lane Open road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Hard shoulder runningPeak lane openExtra lane in useDynamic lane open

Closure & One-Way Signs (C) road sign category

The C23-01 - Rush-Hour Lane Open road sign is part of the Closure & One-Way Signs (C) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

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