The overhead electronic signs advise what the current speed limit is on that section of the freeway.

When operators need to lower those speed limits, in response to an incident or to minimise congestion, the signs will display the dropped speed limit and the red circle around the numbers will flash to draw drivers’ attention to those changes.

The flashing red circle remains flashing until the speed returns their normal maximum speeds.

Lane closures are used to protect both drivers involved in a breakdown or incident, road crews and the travelling public forming a safety barrier between them. This also assists incident response teams to attend the scene.

The lane closures (indicated by the Red ‘X’ on the overhead electronic signs) also assist emergency service vehicles to pass through the area when attending incidents on the freeways.

The overhead electronic signs are part of the Lane Use Management System (LUMS) and are controlled by the Road Network Operations Centre, which monitors traffic numbers and speeds on our freeways using a range of technologies such as sensors, radars and CCTV.

When there’s an incident causing congestion to build up, LUMS is used by our operators to reduce speeds on the freeway. Slowing vehicles down allows the traffic ahead to clear, helps manage safety within congested sections of the freeway and minimises the potential for rear end crashes.

These signs are also used to close lanes and direct traffic into adjoining lanes when there’s an incident or debris ahead on the freeway.

These systems are used to improve traffic flow and enhance safety.

No, these boards will provide important information that may affect journeys and we want drivers to know that when they are on, the messages should be read.

No, the speed limits will always be consistent across all open lanes.

A red diagonal cross signifies that motorists must not drive in that lane.  

A white arrow indicates that motorists must leave the lane as soon as safe to do so, prior to the red cross. The direction of an angled arrow provides guidance for the direction in which a motorist should change lanes or exit.