A1M near Boroughbridge

Image: © David Dixon Taken: 29 Apr 2019

A variable message sign on the northbound carriageway of the A1M at Boroughbridge in North Yorkshire. Variable message signs (VMS), also sometimes referred to as matrix signs, are electronic traffic signs used on motorways (and some other major routes) to give drivers information about special events and to warn them about traffic congestion, accidents, incidents, roadworks or speed limits on specific sections of the route. They may also suggest (or instruct) drivers to take alternative routes, limit speed, warn of duration and location of the incidents or just inform of the traffic conditions. The large VMS ahead is giving drivers an indication of how long it is likely to take to reach the junctions ahead (and hence, an idea of how congested the motorway is ahead).

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