'I'm a driving teacher – never make key mistake when Xs appear on motorway' (2025)

A driving theory teacher has explained what you need to do if you see several red X marks above all the lanes on the motorway – and it might not be what you think you should do

As the Easter bank holiday is creeping closer, thousands of drivers are expected to take to the roads for a getaway. If you're one of these drivers, it might be time to make sure you still remember what all different road signs mean.

If you've ever driven on a motorway, you've likely seen a sign with a big red X above one or more lanes. While most drivers understand that this means the lane is closed and they need to switch lanes, there's less certainty when all lanes display a big red X.

In an effort to help learners pass their theory test, driving theory teacher Annie took to TikTok to explain what to do if you encounter multiple red Xs on the motorway.

Showing a photo of four red X signs together, Annie asked: "You see this sign on a motorway, what do you think you have to do? Do you think you have to leave the motorway at the next exit, or do you think you have to stop your car and wait?"

She went on to explain that a red X over a lane means the lane is question is closed. Typically, all drivers need to shift over to a different lane that remains open.

But this can be a lot trickier if the entire motorway is closed. Annie said: "So, if there's a red X over all lanes, that would mean that all lanes are closed and you have to stop and wait. You can't drive past the red X. All lanes are closed.

"This will happen because there's maybe an accident ahead of you. Maybe a lorry's turned over or there's been a car crash or something.

"So, a red X over one lane means one lane is closed. A red X over all lanes means all lanes are closed and you have to stop and wait. I hope that helps."

Despite her clear explanation, some people commented that they were unsure whether they would actually stop their cars in such a situation.

"I know that in theory you should stop but in practice what if everyone around you is still moving, wouldn't it be really dangerous to just stop," one person asked.

To this, another viewer replied: "Put on your hazards to signal to people that you're stopping/slowing down and they will stop/reduce their speed as well."

Meanwhile, a third person said: "I would just do what the car in front does." However, we'd recommend heeding Annie's advice when it's safe to do so – as failing to stop could see you get slapped by a hefty fine.

If you're caught, you could receive a fixed penalty of up to £100 and three points added to your licence. And that's not all, some cases may require more severe penalties or a court appearance.