A recent online discussion in the UK brought renewed attention to a road sign many drivers still misunderstand: the white circle with a bold black diagonal stripe. Although it appears on the official driving theory test, many motorists admit forgetting its meaning once they’re on the road. One user even claimed that “99% of drivers” don’t truly recognize it, sparking a wave of comments that revealed how easily driving knowledge fades with time.
The sign marks the start of the national speed limit, but its simplicity often leads to confusion. In a Reddit thread, users joked that it meant things like “national drifting zone” or “go as fast as you want,” highlighting how often the sign is misread. Others pointed out that some drivers treat it as a signal to speed up or overtake immediately, creating unnecessary risk.
According to the RAC, the sign means previous speed restrictions no longer apply. Drivers must then follow the standard limit for the type of road they’re on:
60 mph on single carriageways
70 mph on dual carriageways and motorways
Lower limits apply to vans or vehicles towing trailers. Areas with regular street lighting remain 30 mph unless signs say otherwise.
Road safety experts remind drivers that speed limits are maximums, not targets. Weather, visibility, traffic, and road conditions often require slower speeds. The renewed discussion highlights a bigger issue: driver education doesn’t end after the test. Staying updated on road rules and understanding signs like the national speed limit indicator helps keep roads safer for everyone.