5 Crucial Road Signs Every Truck Driver in Hanoi Must Know

A friend of mine recently drove his brand new Hyundai HD72S truck from the Hyundai Truong Chinh dealership to his warehouse in Gia Lam district. Excited about his new ride, he was suddenly pulled over and received a ticket for driving on a road prohibited to trucks. Turns out, a new sign had been installed, and he hadn’t noticed it.

This highlights the crucial importance of traffic signs, especially prohibitive signs. For truck drivers, understanding these signs can prevent costly fines, delays, and potentially dangerous situations.

Prohibitive Road Signs: A Truck Driver’s “Guardian Angel”

Simply put, prohibitive road signs are typically circular with a red border, white background, and black symbols. They indicate actions that are forbidden or restricted for road users. For truck drivers, obeying these signs is not just an obligation but a crucial safety measure that helps avoid risks and unnecessary complications.

Common Prohibitive Road Signs for Truck Drivers

Here are some common prohibitive signs truck drivers frequently encounter:

• Sign 101: No Entry
• Sign 103a: No Trucks Over 5 Tons (including trailers and semi-trailers)
• Sign 103b: No Trucks
• Sign 104: No Buses
• Sign 105: No Three-Wheeled Vehicles
• Sign 106: No Motorcycles
• Sign 107a: No Bicycles
• Sign 107b: No Non-Motorized Vehicles
• Sign 108a: No Pedestrians
• Sign 113: No Left Turn
• Sign 114: No Right Turn
• Sign 116: No U-Turn
• Sign 119: No Overtaking
• Sign 123: End of No Overtaking Zone

Consequences of Disregarding Prohibitive Signs

Ignoring prohibitive signs can lead to serious consequences:

• Traffic Accidents: Trucks, due to their size and weight, pose a significant danger in restricted areas.
• Fines: Penalties for violating traffic signs can be substantial.
• Damaged Reputation: Traffic violations can negatively impact your professional reputation.

Important Reminders for Truck Drivers

• Always pay close attention to traffic signs, especially in densely populated areas, narrow roads, and on bridges.
• Understand the meaning of each prohibitive sign, particularly those related to truck weight and dimensions.
• Plan your route in advance to avoid restricted roads and one-way streets.
• Stay informed about traffic laws and regulations.
• Drive carefully, stay focused, and never drive under the influence of alcohol.