Prohibited Number of Axles

Axle number prohibition signs appear where road design or structures cannot accommodate long articulated vehicles.

Common before narrow historic bridges, on approach roads with sharp turns unsuitable for multi-axle vehicles, in historic town centers with tight streets, and on residential roads where long vehicles create traffic management problems.

These restrictions typically prohibit 5-axle and 6-axle articulated trucks while allowing smaller rigid vehicles and standard cars.

Vehicles with the specified number of axles cannot proceed beyond this point.

This typically affects articulated lorries and large commercial vehicles.

Standard cars, vans, and rigid trucks usually have fewer axles and can proceed.

The restriction exists because multi-axle vehicles' length and turning radius make navigation impossible or dangerous beyond this point.

If you are driving a commercial vehicle, know your axle count and respect these restrictions.

Alternative routes for commercial traffic are typically signed.

Violating axle number restrictions carries fines from €500 to €2,000.

If violation results in the vehicle becoming stuck, blocking traffic, or causing damage, dangerous driving charges may apply: 5 penalty points, fines to €5,000, imprisonment, and disqualification.

Recovery costs for stuck multi-axle vehicles can exceed €10,000.

Damage to historic structures or street furniture results in full civil liability.

Commercial operators face transport license sanctions for repeated violations.

Sat-nav systems cannot always account for axle restrictions, so professional drivers must route-plan carefully.

Commercial vehicle license tests include detailed questions on axle restrictions and the requirement to plan routes considering vehicle dimensions and configuration.

Standard car drivers should understand that these restrictions exist to protect infrastructure and manage traffic flow.

Written questions test understanding that axle number relates to vehicle length and turning capability.

Awareness of restrictions affecting different vehicle types demonstrates comprehensive road safety knowledge.

Professional drivers must show thorough understanding of their vehicle's axle configuration and legal obligations to respect all vehicle-specific restrictions.