Warning sign · W348
Unprotected water edge sign (W348)
An unprotected jetty edge or river bank lies ahead.
What does the unprotected water edge sign mean?
An unprotected jetty edge or river bank lies ahead.
What should you do?
Approach slowly and keep clear of the unprotected edge.
| Sign code | W348 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Warning signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the unprotected water edge sign
A triangle showing a vehicle driving off the end of a jetty or river bank.
Where you will see it
On roads close to water or harbours.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Slow down and look for the end of the road so you can stop in time.
The common mistake
Unprotected edges are dangerous at night. Do not rely on headlights alone.
Why this sign matters
A road that leads to a jetty or river bank can end in deep water. The sign gives you time to stop before the end.
About warning signs
Warning signs tell you about a hazard ahead so you can slow down and prepare. They are red-bordered triangles. The K53 learner's test asks you to recognise signs like the unprotected water edge sign (W348) and choose the correct response, so learn both the picture and the action.
How to answer a test question about this sign
- Look at the shape and colour first. They tell you the group: warning signs for this one.
- Recall what the sign asks of you: approach slowly and keep clear of the unprotected edge.
- Remove the options that describe a different group of sign, then choose the response that matches the action.
Want the full explanation? Read the chapter Warning signs and temporary road controls.
Signs it is often confused with
Learners mix up signs that look or sound similar. Compare the unprotected water edge sign with these:
Crossroad ahead (W101)A triangle with a plain cross showing a road crossing yours.
T-junction ahead (W104)A triangle showing your road ending against a road that runs across it.
Skewed T-junction (W105)A triangle showing a T-junction whose cross-road meets yours at an angle (one of a left/right pair).Test yourself: Unprotected water edge sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- Vehicles higher than the displayed limit may not proceed.
- A sharp bend lies ahead in the direction shown.
- An unprotected jetty edge or river bank lies ahead.
Show the answer
Answer C: An unprotected jetty edge or river bank lies ahead.
Approach slowly and keep clear of the unprotected edge.
Memory tip: W348 · Unprotected water edge
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Check the height of the whole vehicle and load.
- Approach slowly and keep clear of the unprotected edge.
- Reduce speed and select a suitable gear before the bend.
Show the answer
Answer B: Approach slowly and keep clear of the unprotected edge.
Unprotected water edge: An unprotected jetty edge or river bank lies ahead.
Memory tip: Approach slowly and keep clear of the unprotected edge.
All vehicle codes
Unprotected water edge sign: quick questions
What does the unprotected water edge sign (W348) mean?
An unprotected jetty edge or river bank lies ahead.
What should you do at the unprotected water edge sign?
Slow down and look for the end of the road so you can stop in time.
Where will you see the unprotected water edge sign?
On roads close to water or harbours.
What is the common mistake with the unprotected water edge sign?
Unprotected edges are dangerous at night. Do not rely on headlights alone.
Sign artwork: Southern African Development Community (SADC), public domain. AceK53 is an independent study aid. Always confirm test requirements with your driving licence testing centre.