Warning signs

What do warning signs look like?

Warning signs are triangular with a white background, red border and black symbols. There are exceptions to this rule of thumb. They alert you to particular dangers — places on the road where you need to be extra attentive and drive at a low enough speed to handle the hazard.
Warns of a quay, beach, or ferry terminal

Warns of a quay, beach, or ferry terminal

The sign warns that you are approaching a quay, beach, or ferry terminal. The road may end abruptly right before the water, so be extra careful not to drive off the road and into the water!

Quay, beach, or ferry berth warning

Is the quay, beach, or ferry berth warning sign important for the theory test and the practical driving test?

The quay, beach, or ferry berth warning sign is part of the syllabus both for the theory test and the practical driving test. On the theory test you may be asked what the sign means, where it is used, and how you should drive. If you encounter the sign during the practical driving test you must show that you recognize it and adjust your speed so that you do not drive into the water.

What is the quay, beach, or ferry berth warning sign?

The quay, beach, or ferry berth warning sign is a warning sign that warns that the road ends at the water. The sign is triangular with a red border and has a symbol showing a quay or pier next to water.

When do you encounter the quay, beach, or ferry berth warning sign?

This sign is often placed:

  • At ferry berths – before the road leads to where the boat docks.
  • At small boat harbors – where the road goes all the way to a pier or quay.
  • At beaches – where the road ends at the water's edge and can be slippery.

In the picture you see the quay, beach, or ferry berth warning sign. The sign gives plenty of time to brake and avoid the car rolling into the water.

Picture of the quay, beach, or ferry berth warning sign at a quay

What happens if you ignore the quay, beach, or ferry berth warning sign?

If you ignore the sign, you risk driving into the water, which can lead to serious injuries, drowning hazard, and damage to the car. You can also get a fine or demerit points for reckless driving.

Why is the quay, beach, or ferry berth warning sign important?

The sign gives a clear warning before the road ends in water. It increases safety at the water's edge by giving you time to slow down or stop.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the quay, beach, or ferry berth warning sign

  • Can supplementary signs be used with the quay, beach, or ferry berth warning sign? – Yes. You may see supplementary sign 802 "Distance" to show how far it is to the water, or supplementary sign 810 "Turn arrow" if the road turns before the water's edge.
  • Does the quay, beach, or ferry berth warning sign apply to all road users? – Yes. The sign warns everyone that the road leads into water, regardless of vehicle type.