Construction zones present increased risk due to narrowed lanes, uneven surfaces, workers on foot, and abrupt changes in traffic flow. Swedish law requires extra caution and strict speed compliance in these zones.
Identifying a Construction Zone
Construction signs in Sweden often have an orange or amber background, making them visually distinct from permanent white signs. The standard roadworks warning sign is a yellow triangle with a man digging. Speed limit reductions in construction zones are mandatory — enforcement is often increased with mobile cameras.
Lane Changes and Merging
Construction zones frequently reduce two lanes to one using lane closure signs and cones. Swedish traffic law requires the zip merge principle (dragkedjeprincipen) — both lanes continue to the merge point and then alternate one by one. Do not block the closing lane early; this creates unnecessary congestion.
Worker Safety
Workers may be present at any time. A sign showing a worker (hard hat figure) means personnel are active in or near the carriageway. Reduce speed immediately and be prepared to stop.
Exam tip: Speed limits in construction zones are enforced as strictly as any other limit. Ignorance of the zone is not a defence.