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Dutch Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Navigating the L101-3 Taper Insertion Sign: Merging Two Lanes into One

L101-3 - Taper Insertion — Two-Lane Carriageways Dutch road sign meaning

The L101-3 sign indicates a point where two separate carriageways merge into a single two-lane roadway. It visually shows how many lanes are merging and how many will continue, crucial information for anticipating traffic changes. Drivers must be prepared for vehicles entering from the side, aiming for a smooth zipper merge. Maintaining a consistent speed and position is key to preventing accidents as lanes converge. This sign is typically found on roads where traffic flow needs to be managed during lane reductions.

About the L101-3 - Taper Insertion — Two-Lane Carriageways road sign

Learn the key details of the L101-3 - Taper Insertion — Two-Lane Carriageways 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 L101-3

The two-lane taper insertion sign is used before a merge where each of two approaching roads contributes one or more lanes to a combined two-lane carriageway. The diagram indicates how the lanes narrow or shift and shows the final number of through lanes. Drivers on both approaches should maintain a steady, moderate speed, use both lanes up to the merge if appropriate, and alternate fairly to prevent queues and side collisions.

Meaning of L101-3

This sign shows a diagram where two separate carriageways or lane groups merge into one new two-lane roadway. It prepares you for traffic joining from the side and for lane lines that gradually guide vehicles together. You should anticipate a zipper merge situation and adjust your speed and position so that traffic from both approaches can blend smoothly.

Allowed actions for L101-3

Use the full length of the available lanes up to the merge point if appropriateMatch your speed to the general flow when approaching the mergeIndicate in good time and merge alternately with traffic from the other approachKeep a safe following distance so other vehicles can join the laneObserve any lane control signals or markings that guide the merge

Prohibited actions for L101-3

Racing ahead to the very front of the taper to gain position aggressivelyOvertaking on the shoulder or verge to bypass the queueBlocking vehicles from the other side that are trying to merge fairlyBraking hard in the merge zone because you chose your lane too late

L101-3 - Taper Insertion — Two-Lane Carriageways road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the L101-3 - Taper Insertion — Two-Lane Carriageways 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 L101-3 Taper Insertion sign?

The L101-3 sign informs drivers that two lanes are merging into one combined carriageway. Its purpose is to alert you to an upcoming lane reduction and prepare you for vehicles entering from the merging lane, promoting a safe and orderly merge.

How should I behave when I see the L101-3 sign?

When you see the L101-3 sign, be aware that the lanes ahead will merge. It's important to anticipate vehicles entering from the side and be ready to adjust your speed. Aim for a cooperative 'zipper' merge, using both lanes until the merge point if instructed by traffic or other signs, and signal appropriately when changing lanes.

What are common mistakes drivers make at a L101-3 merge?

A common mistake is accelerating late or aggressively trying to be the first to merge, which can cause dangerous situations. Another is blocking the taper by refusing to let merging traffic in, or drivers attempting to 'shoulder overtake' to bypass queues, which is unsafe and prohibited.

Does the L101-3 sign mean I must stop?

No, the L101-3 sign does not mean you must stop. It's an informational sign indicating a lane merge ahead. You should prepare to adjust your speed and position to allow for a safe transition, but continuing to drive through the merge point is expected unless traffic conditions dictate otherwise.

What does the diagram on the L101-3 sign show?

The diagram on the L101-3 sign visually represents the lane configuration. It typically illustrates how many lanes are present on each approach and how many lanes continue on the combined carriageway after the merge point, helping you understand the traffic flow ahead.

L101-3 - Taper Insertion — Two-Lane Carriageways road sign image

A clear reference image of the L101-3 - Taper Insertion — Two-Lane Carriageways road sign used in the Netherlands.

L101-3 - Taper Insertion — Two-Lane Carriageways road sign

Other names for the L101-3 - Taper Insertion — Two-Lane Carriageways

The L101-3 - Taper Insertion — Two-Lane Carriageways road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Merge diagram (2→2)Taper insertion (two-lane)

Information Signs (L) road sign category

The L101-3 - Taper Insertion — Two-Lane Carriageways road sign is part of the Information Signs (L) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

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