Surface step: what it means

What it means

One side of the carriageway (roadway) is at a higher level than the other side. There is a step, or ridge, between the two levels.

What you must do

Slow down. Do not make any sudden jerking steering motions, because that could cause you to lose control completely.

Where you see it

On any road.

Remember

A step in the road surface: slow down and steer smoothly.

What the step can do to your vehicle:

• Your vehicle may tend to the left or right if you straddle the step. To straddle is to drive with wheels on both levels.
• Because of the ridge, vehicles may be slow to return to the higher level.
• A vehicle could react suddenly if the wheel mounts the ridge.

This sign comes in two versions. On one, the right-hand side of the carriageway is higher than the left-hand side. On the other, the left-hand side is higher than the right-hand side. Look at the sign in front of you to see which side is higher.

Test yourself

1. Question 1

   Which of these signs warns that one side of the carriageway is at a higher level than the other side?

   

   

   

   Show answer

   Answer: Picture B

   This is the Surface step sign. It warns that one side of the road is higher than the other side.

2. Question 2

   

   The sign shown warns that which side of the carriageway is at the higher level?

   • A The left-hand side
   • B The centre of the carriageway
   • C The right-hand side
   Show answer

   Answer: C: The right-hand side

   This Surface step sign (TW340) warns that the right-hand side of the road is higher than the left.

3. Question 3

   At a Surface step sign, what may your vehicle do if you straddle the step between the higher and lower level?

   • A It may lose all engine power
   • B It may tend to the left or right
   • C It may come to an immediate standstill
   Show answer

   Answer: B: It may tend to the left or right

   If you straddle the step, your car may pull to the left or to the right.