Driver Location Signs
Helping to pinpoint your location on the motorway network
If you need to report an incident, debris or a breakdown, it's important that you can describe accurately where you are.
The new driver location signs now appearing across the motorways and A–roads network let you know, and describe, exactly where you are when an incident happens.
The signs are designed to be visible from the road whilst travelling and to identify your precise location so you (using a hands free kit) or your passenger can report an incident accurately without having to stop the vehicle.
Use the information on the sign to tell the emergency services, breakdown/recovery service or Highways Agency Traffic Officer about the location.
To report a road traffic incident/collisions call 999 or 112
To report debris call the Highways Agency Information Line 08457 50 40 30
The AA breakdown number is 0800 887766, or call from a mobile on 08457 887766
What does the information on the sign mean?
Direction of travel
The letter on the second line of the signs tells the emergency services or the Highways Agency which direction you are travelling in.
On the M25, 'A' indicates clockwise on the main carriageway and 'B' anticlockwise.
On other Motorways 'A' is generally used to indicate northbound or 'Away' from London and 'B' southbound or 'Back' to London.
On spur roads or motorway sliproads you will see J, K, L or M depending on direction and location.
Distance
Distances are accurate to within 20 metres and are generally quoted from the beginning of the motorway. On the M25 distances are measured clockwise from the Dartford crossing.
Location
Driver location signs will be located on the near side verge of the road at every 500m though this may be reduced in some locations to avoid locating a sign underneath a bridge for example where it cannot easily be seen.
More information
Visit the Highways Agency website for more information.
Download a leaflet (1.7Mb pdf document) from the Highways Agency website to print and keep in your car.
To view the PDF file you'll need
Adobe® Reader®.
12 August 2008
(calls to 0845 numbers cost no more than 4p/min from BT landlines, charges from mobile networks may vary)