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Australia’s roads are shared by a variety of vehicles, from compact cars to massive road trains. Among the many rules designed to ensure safety for all road users, the Do Not Overtake Turning Vehicle Sign plays a crucial role in preventing collisions involving larger vehicles. Whether you’re navigating city streets or highways, understanding this rule and Do Not Overtake Turning Vehicle Signs is essential for safe and lawful driving.
In this article, we will explore what the rule entails, which vehicles require the signage, the legal implications, and why these signs are critical for road safety.
What Is the Do Not Overtake Turning Vehicle Sign Rule?
Do Not Overtake Turning Vehicle Signs are not just a suggestion—it’s a road rule designed to allow large vehicles the space they need to complete safe turns.
When a vehicle displays this sign, other drivers must not attempt to overtake it while it is turning, even if it momentarily straddles multiple lanes. Large vehicles such as trucks, buses, and caravans often require extra space when making turns due to their size and limited manoeuvrability. Attempting to squeeze past a turning vehicle is extremely dangerous and can result in serious accidents.
The rule applies specifically to vehicles or combinations that are at least 7.5 metres long. This includes not just trucks and buses but also vehicles towing long caravans or trailers.
Who Needs to Display Do Not Overtake Turning Vehicle Signs?
Not every vehicle requires a Do Not Overtake a Turning Vehicle Sign, but those that do must comply with specific regulations. The requirement is based on the vehicle’s size and mass:
Mandatory Signage
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Vehicles over 12 tonnes Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) must display a Do Not Overtake Turning Vehicle Sticker to alert other drivers.
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Trailers over 10 tonnes Gross Trailer Mass (GTM) are also required to have the sign.
Permitted (Optional) Signage
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Any vehicle or vehicle combination that is at least 7.5 metres in length may display the sign if it needs additional space to complete turns safely.
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Many caravans and motorhomes opt to display Do Not Overtake Turning Vehicle Signs even if they’re not legally required, as a precautionary measure.
Importantly, it is illegal to display this sign on vehicles shorter than 7.5 metres, as doing so can mislead other road users.
Requirements can differ from state to state so please check your state specific requirements to ensure you are displaying the correct signage.
Signage Requirements
To ensure clarity and compliance, Truck & Heavy Vehicle Signs must meet strict design and placement guidelines. This can include the size of the signs, visibility requirements such as reflective finishes and where the signs must be placed on the vehicle.
Some variations of the sign include:
Do Not Overtake Turning Vehicle NSW (Set) 400mm Reflective Sign
Do Not Overtake Turning Vehicle (Set) 300mm Reflective Sign
Do Not Overtake Turning Vehicle 300mm x 100mm Reflective Sign
Do Not Overtake Turning Vehicle (Set) 300mm x 400mm Reflective Sign
Different Truck & Vehicle Signs may exist based on jurisdictional requirements, so drivers should always ensure compliance when travelling interstate.
Legal Implications of Displaying the Sign
The presence of a Do Not Overtake a Turning Vehicle Sign grants legal protection to vehicles making wide turns. Here’s what this means in practice:
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Drivers must not overtake a vehicle displaying this sign when it is in the process of turning.
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If an accident occurs because another driver ignored the sign, the driver of the turning vehicle is less likely to be held liable.
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Incorrect use of the sign on vehicles under 7.5 metres in length can result in penalties.
Ignoring these signs is not only illegal but also dangerous, as it increases the risk of side-swipe collisions or vehicles becoming trapped between the turning truck and the curb.
Why Is This Rule Important?
The Do Not Overtake Turning Vehicle Signs exist for a simple yet critical reason: to protect all road users.
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Prevents Side Collisions – Without these signs, many drivers might not anticipate that a large vehicle will need to take up an extra lane while turning. The rule ensures that smaller vehicles give way and avoid dangerous side-swipes.
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Provides Clarity for Motorists – The Do Not Overtake Turning Vehicle Sticker serves as a clear warning for drivers, reducing uncertainty about whether it is safe to overtake.
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Protects Pedestrians and Cyclists – When vehicles attempt to overtake a turning truck or bus, they may unknowingly put pedestrians or cyclists in danger if visibility is compromised.
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Improves Traffic Flow – Understanding and following the rule prevents unnecessary congestion and accidents, making the roads safer for everyone.
Regional Variations Across Australia
Although the Do Not Overtake a Turning Vehicle Sign is a nationwide regulation, there are some regional differences:
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New South Wales has the strictest requirements, with specific lettering sizes and reflectivity standards.
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Other states may allow slight variations in sign placement or dimensions.
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Drivers travelling interstate should always check local guidelines to ensure compliance with state regulations.
Conclusion
The Do Not Overtake Turning Vehicle Signs play a crucial role in maintaining road safety across Australia. These signs ensure that large vehicles have the space they need to turn safely, reducing the risk of accidents and confusion on the road.
By understanding when and where these signs apply, drivers can contribute to a safer road environment for everyone. Whether you’re driving a truck, towing a caravan, or simply sharing the road, respecting Truck & Vehicle Signs is key to preventing accidents and ensuring smooth traffic flow.
Next time you see a Do Not Overtake Turning Vehicle Sticker, remember—it’s there for a reason. Stay back, be patient, and let larger vehicles complete their turn safely.
Also check out our Truck & Heavy Vehicle Signs for Road Safety blog.