This innovative measure will help drivers better gauge the length of the road trains in front of them, leading to safer overtaking and improved decision-making.

The new signage will be displayed on the rear of restricted access vehicles, including road trains and other heavy vehicles. It will indicate the number of trailers and the total length of the vehicle, depicted as an equivalent number of car lengths. This visual representation is designed to give road users a more accurate understanding of the size of these vehicles, aiding in safer road sharing.

This signage will replace the existing 'ROAD TRAIN' or 'LONG VEHICLE' signs, which currently cover vehicle combinations ranging from 22 meters to 60 meters in length. The updated signs will offer more precise information, improving safety for all road users.

The new signage system was tested by Main Roads on regional roads during 2022 and 2023. The trial received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with approximately 90% of respondents supporting the new signage.

While W.A is currently the only state to implement this type of signage, there has been interest from other interstate road authorities. Interstate Heavy Vehicle Operators traveling into W.A. will not face penalties under the new regulations, as existing warning signage will still be recognized and accepted.