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Dutch Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Prepare to stop: The J32 Traffic Lights sign warns of upcoming signal-controlled junctions.

J32 - Traffic Lights Dutch road sign meaning

The J32 'Traffic Lights' road sign is a warning sign indicating that you are approaching a junction or crossing controlled by traffic signals. It serves as a reminder to be alert, as signals can be newly installed, obscured, or unexpectedly appear after a faster road section. Drivers should reduce speed and be prepared to stop, especially if tailbacks are present, while also observing separate signals for cyclists and pedestrians.

About the J32 - Traffic Lights road sign

Learn the key details of the J32 - Traffic Lights 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 J32

This warning sign, displaying a set of signal heads, indicates the approach to traffic lights controlling a junction, crossing, or pedestrian facility. It enforces early speed reduction and close attention to the signal sequence. The sign is commonly used where signals may be hidden by curves, buildings, or trees, or where drivers are emerging from faster roads and might not expect controlled intersections.

Meaning of J32

This sign warns of traffic light controlled junctions, crossings, or pedestrian facilities on the road ahead, which may be unexpected. Drivers must reduce speed in good time, watch for changing signals, and be prepared to stop safely for queues, pedestrians, and cyclists at the stop line, especially in poor visibility or heavy traffic.

Allowed actions for J32

Reduce speed early when the signal warning sign appearsObserve all signal heads for your lane and turning directionStop safely at the stop line if the signal turns redWatch for pedestrians and cyclists using their own signal phasesMove off promptly but smoothly when the signal turns green

Prohibited actions for J32

Accelerating toward a changing amber signal to beat the redBlocking the junction or crossing after the lights changeIgnoring red signals for vehicles, cyclists, or pedestriansChanging lanes abruptly near the stop line to gain advantageStopping over the stop line or on pedestrian crossings

J32 - Traffic Lights road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the J32 - Traffic Lights 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 J32 'Traffic Lights' sign mean?

The J32 sign is a warning sign that alerts you to an upcoming junction or crossing controlled by traffic lights. It's important to be aware that these signals might be newly installed or difficult to see, so you should be prepared to stop.

How should I react when I see the J32 'Traffic Lights' sign?

Upon seeing the J32 sign, you should reduce your speed and increase your observation. Be ready to stop if the traffic lights change to red or if there's congestion ahead. Always watch all signal heads, as they may operate on different phases.

What are common mistakes learners make with the J32 sign?

A common mistake is not anticipating the traffic lights and approaching too quickly, especially if the sign appears after a stretch of road with no apparent reason to slow down. Another trap is failing to observe tailbacks beyond the junction or ignoring separate signals for cyclists and pedestrians.

Does the J32 sign mean I must stop immediately?

No, the J32 sign is a warning sign, meaning it alerts you to something ahead. You must stop only if the traffic lights ahead are red, or if traffic conditions require you to stop to avoid blocking the junction or endangering others.

Why is it important to approach the J32 sign cautiously?

You should approach cautiously because factors like glare, weather conditions, or the sign’s placement might hide the actual traffic lights or signal changes. This caution ensures you can react safely and avoid sudden braking or running a red light.

J32 - Traffic Lights road sign image

A clear reference image of the J32 - Traffic Lights road sign used in the Netherlands.

J32 - Traffic Lights road sign

Other names for the J32 - Traffic Lights

The J32 - Traffic Lights road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Signals aheadSignalized junction

Warning Signs (J) road sign category

The J32 - Traffic Lights road sign is part of the Warning Signs (J) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

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