Additional Info

Give Way / Yield to Oncoming Traffic Road Sign – R6

The Give Way / Yield to Oncoming Traffic road sign, designated R6 in the South African road traffic sign system, is a regulatory control sign used where vehicles travelling in opposite directions cannot pass each other at the same time because part of the roadway is too narrow or otherwise constrained.

The R6 sign instructs the approaching driver to yield right-of-way to oncoming traffic when the opposing vehicles are close enough to the obstruction or restricted section that proceeding would create danger or potential danger, or would require the oncoming vehicles to stop.

R6 is intended for controlled sections of roadway rather than ordinary road junctions. It can be particularly useful at narrow bridges, chicanes, pinch points and other restricted sections where traffic in only one direction can pass at a time.

What Does an R6 Yield to Oncoming Traffic Sign Mean?

An R6 sign means that the driver approaching the sign must yield right-of-way to oncoming traffic when the opposing traffic has priority and is close enough that both directions cannot safely pass the obstruction or restricted section at the same time.

The driver should reduce speed, assess the approaching traffic and be prepared to stop at the appropriate point if necessary. The driver may proceed once the opposing traffic has passed and it is safe and permitted to continue.

The R6 sign therefore establishes priority between opposing traffic at a specific restricted section. It is different from a normal Give Way sign used at an intersection.

Where Are R6 Signs Used?

The R6 Yield to Oncoming Traffic sign is intended for sections of roadway where traffic in only one direction can pass at a time. Suitable applications can include:

• Narrow bridges
• Single-lane bridge sections
• Roadway pinch points
• Traffic-calming chicanes
• Restricted sections of roadway
• Temporary or permanent road constraints
• Other narrow sections where opposing traffic cannot safely pass simultaneously

The South African Road Traffic Signs Manual specifically states that R6 should be used on a section of roadway between junctions where part of the section is only wide enough to accommodate traffic in one direction at a time.

How Does the R6 Sign Work?

When approaching an R6 sign, the driver should assess the traffic approaching from the opposite direction.

If oncoming traffic has priority and is close enough to make simultaneous passage unsafe, the approaching driver must yield and allow the opposing vehicles to pass.

After the opposing traffic has cleared the restricted section, the driver can proceed when it is safe to do so, while continuing to follow any other applicable traffic signs and road markings.

R6 Signs at Narrow Bridges

A narrow bridge is one of the situations where an R6 sign may be appropriate. If the bridge is only wide enough for vehicles travelling in one direction at a time, traffic priority may need to be established so that vehicles do not enter from both directions simultaneously.

The R6 sign can be used where it is necessary to maintain priority in the opposite direction and where traffic volumes provide sufficient opportunities for the non-priority direction to proceed.

Drivers should approach such locations carefully and be prepared to wait for oncoming traffic to clear the restricted section.

R6 Signs at Chicanes and Pinch Points

R6 may also be appropriate at chicanes and pinch points that form part of traffic-calming measures.

These features can reduce the available roadway width so that vehicles travelling in opposite directions cannot pass simultaneously. An R6 sign can establish which direction of traffic must yield at the controlled point.

Where the road geometry makes the traffic priority unclear, additional diagrammatic or right-of-way signs may be required to provide further information to road users.

R6 Signs During Roadworks

A restricted section created by roadworks or other temporary activities may require traffic to be controlled in one direction at a time.

However, the exact traffic-control arrangement should be designed according to the conditions at the work site. Depending on the situation, additional warning signs, barriers, cones, temporary traffic signals or manual traffic control may be required.

Because R6 is classified as a Control sign, the South African Road Traffic Signs Manual states that where a temporary application of R6 is required, the permanent version of the sign is used.

R6 Sign Placement

The R6 sign should be positioned on the left side of the roadway sufficiently far from the obstruction or restricted section so that a vehicle stopping to yield does not obstruct traffic travelling in the opposite direction.

Where necessary, a YIELD LINE marking RTM2 may be provided at the appropriate stopping position.

The sign should also be clearly visible to approaching drivers and should not be unnecessarily obstructed by vegetation, buildings, parked vehicles, temporary equipment or other objects.

Advance Warning for an R6 Restriction

In some situations, the R6 sign may be repeated in advance of the actual yield point to inform drivers that priority control exists further ahead.

Where an advance R6 sign is used in this manner, the South African Road Traffic Signs Manual specifies the use of supplementary plate IN11.3 to indicate the distance to the yield point.

The distance should provide sufficient opportunity for approaching drivers to reduce speed and stop if they need to yield to oncoming traffic.

Oncoming Traffic Must Also Receive Appropriate Information

Traffic approaching from the opposite direction should also be provided with information about the applicable priority arrangement.

The South African Road Traffic Signs Manual identifies the ONCOMING TRAFFIC SHALL YIELD diagrammatic sign GS155 or a RIGHT OF WAY sign IN7 for the opposing direction.

Where the geometry of an obstruction makes the priority arrangement difficult to understand, a diagrammatic sign showing the obstruction may also be appropriate.

R6 vs a Normal Give Way Sign

The R6 Yield to Oncoming Traffic sign should not be confused with the standard Give Way sign used at road junctions.

R6 specifically controls priority between opposing traffic at a restricted section of roadway. The South African Road Traffic Signs Manual states that R6 shall not be used at a road junction.

This distinction is important when selecting traffic-control signage because the correct sign depends on the traffic situation and road layout.

R6 Signs on Private Property

Similar traffic-priority arrangements may be required on private roads and controlled developments where a narrow section only allows vehicles to pass in one direction at a time.

Potential applications can include:

• Private access roads
• Shopping centre access routes
• Business parks
• Residential developments
• Industrial properties
• Hotels and resorts
• Private parking facilities
• Internal roads with narrow sections

For private-property applications, the sign should form part of an appropriate site traffic-management arrangement and should be positioned so that drivers understand the priority arrangement before entering the restricted section.

R6 Sign Visibility

Clear visibility is important because drivers need to identify the priority instruction before reaching the narrow or restricted section.

The roadway layout, stopping position, surrounding structures, vegetation and other traffic-control devices should all be considered when determining the appropriate sign position.

Where drivers need additional information before reaching the controlled point, an advance sign and supplementary distance plate may be appropriate.

R6 Sign Colours and Appearance

The official South African specification identifies the R6 sign as a circular regulatory sign with a red retroreflective border and symbols, together with a white retroreflective background. The symbol also incorporates black semi-matt elements as specified in the sign design.

Give Way to Oncoming Traffic Signs in South Africa

The R6 Yield to Oncoming Traffic sign forms part of South Africa's regulatory traffic-sign system. It is specifically intended to control traffic priority where a roadway constraint means that traffic can only pass in one direction at a time.

For public roads, sign selection, placement and installation should follow the applicable traffic-control requirements and the requirements of the responsible road or traffic authority.

For private developments, the sign should be incorporated into the site's overall traffic-management arrangement.

Give Way to Oncoming Traffic Sign FAQs

What does an R6 sign mean?

R6 means Yield to Oncoming Traffic. It requires a driver approaching the controlled section to yield right-of-way to oncoming traffic when the opposing traffic is close enough that both directions cannot safely pass the restriction at the same time.

Where is an R6 sign used?

It is used on restricted sections of roadway, between junctions, where the available width only allows traffic to pass in one direction at a time. Narrow bridges, chicanes and pinch points are examples of situations where R6 may be appropriate.

Can R6 be used at an intersection?

No. The South African Road Traffic Signs Manual specifically states that R6 shall not be used at a road junction.

Do I have to stop at an R6 sign?

You must yield when oncoming traffic has priority and is close enough to create danger or potential danger. You should be prepared to stop if necessary, but the sign does not mean that a vehicle must stop every time regardless of whether oncoming traffic is present.

Can R6 be used at a narrow bridge?

Yes. A narrow bridge that only allows traffic to pass in one direction at a time is one of the situations specifically identified for possible use of R6.

Can R6 be used at a roadworks site?

Traffic control at roadworks depends on the site conditions and approved traffic-management arrangement. R6 may form part of an appropriate control arrangement where a restricted section requires one direction of traffic to yield.

Can R6 be used at a traffic-calming chicane?

Yes. The South African Road Traffic Signs Manual identifies chicanes and pinch points forming part of traffic-calming measures as possible applications for R6.

Can R6 signs be used on private property?

Similar traffic-priority arrangements can be used on suitable private roads and internal routes where a narrow section requires opposing traffic to be controlled. The sign should form part of an appropriate site traffic-management arrangement.

Is R6 the same as a normal Give Way sign?

No. R6 specifically controls priority between opposing traffic at a restricted section of roadway. It is not the standard Give Way sign used to control priority at a road junction.

Does Signs4SA supply R6 Yield to Oncoming Traffic signs?

Signs4SA can assist with R6 traffic-control signs and other regulatory, warning and directional signage for suitable road, commercial, industrial, construction and private-property applications. Contact us with your required specification, size and installation requirements for a quotation.

Request a Quote for R6 Yield to Oncoming Traffic Signs

The R6 Give Way / Yield to Oncoming Traffic road sign provides a clear traffic-control instruction where a narrow or restricted section of roadway can only accommodate traffic in one direction at a time.

Correct sign selection and placement are important so that drivers understand the priority arrangement before reaching the obstruction or restricted section.

Contact Signs4SA to discuss your R6 Yield to Oncoming Traffic sign requirements, provide your specifications and request a quotation.

Give Way / Yield to oncoming traffic signs come in a variety of styles and formats, including danger signs, warning signs, and caution signs. Danger signs are used to indicate an immediate threat that could cause serious injury or death, such as high voltage areas or hazardous materials. Warning signs are used to indicate potential hazards that could cause injury, such as slippery floors or falling objects. Caution signs are used to indicate potential hazards that could cause minor injury, such as low ceilings or uneven surfaces. Another type of safety sign is the Give Way / Yield to oncoming traffic sign, which is used to provide guidance on safe behavior. These signs can include instructions on how to use equipment or machinery safely, as well as reminders to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) or follow specific safety protocols. Give Way / Yield to oncoming traffic signs can also be used to ensure compliance with safety regulations. For example, fire safety signs are required by law in most public buildings and workplaces. These signs indicate the location of fire exits, fire extinguishers, and other fire safety equipment.

More About Give Way / Yield to oncoming traffic

Safety signs are an essential part of any workplace or public space. They are used to warn people of potential hazards, provide guidance on safe behavior, and ensure compliance with safety regulations. One type of safety sign is the Give Way / Yield to oncoming traffic sign, which is designed to alert people to potential dangers in a particular area. Give Way / Yield to oncoming traffic signs come in a variety of styles and formats, including danger signs, warning signs, and caution signs. Danger signs are used to indicate an immediate threat that could cause serious injury or death, such as high voltage areas or hazardous materials. Warning signs are used to indicate potential hazards that could cause injury, such as slippery floors or falling objects. Caution signs are used to indicate potential hazards that could cause minor injury, such as low ceilings or uneven surfaces. Another type of safety sign is the Give Way / Yield to oncoming traffic sign, which is used to provide guidance on safe behavior. These signs can include instructions on how to use equipment or machinery safely, as well as reminders to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) or follow specific safety protocols. Give Way / Yield to oncoming traffic signs can also be used to ensure compliance with safety regulations. For example, fire safety signs are required by law in most public buildings and workplaces. These signs indicate the location of fire exits, fire extinguishers, and other fire safety equipment. In addition to these types of safety signs, there are also specialized signs available for specific industries or hazards. For example, construction sites may use signs to indicate the location of underground utilities or to warn of falling debris. Healthcare facilities may use signs to remind employees to wash their hands or to indicate the location of first aid supplies. When selecting safety signs, it is important to choose signs that are appropriate for the specific hazard or situation. Signs should be placed in prominent locations where they are easily visible, and should be made from durable materials that can withstand harsh environmental conditions. By using safety signs effectively, businesses and organizations can help protect their employees, customers, and visitors from harm.

Customer Reviews