Single-Lane Bridges

When driving around the countryside of Iceland, you’ll quickly notice something unique about the roads: many bridges, especially outside of Reykjavík, are single-lane. These narrow bridges are common on the Ring Road and in rural areas, and knowing how they work will make your drive safer and less stressful.

A single-lane bridge is exactly what it sounds like—only one vehicle can cross at a time. Instead of two separate lanes, the bridge has just one, so drivers need to coordinate who goes first.

Many of these bridges were built decades ago when traffic was lighter and Iceland's roadworks budget was much less than it is today. Many remain in use today, usually in lower-traffic areas of the country.

While Iceland’s road network has improved greatly, single-lane bridges are still part of the adventure of driving here.

Single-lane bridges are marked by a unique road sign.

The sign will be two-fold:

1. A yellow triangle with a red outline and a black exclamation mark in the middle.
2. Below that, a yellow square with a red outline and an image depicting a car and a single-lane bridge, with the words "Einbreið Brú" underneath.

Please find an image of the sign for single-lane bridges at the bottom of this page.

In most cases, the rule is simple: the car that arrives at the bridge first has the right of way. If two vehicles arrive at the same time, the driver closer to the bridge usually proceeds first. If you see another car already crossing, always stop and wait until the bridge is clear.

If you arrive at the bridge at the same time as the car on the opposite side, you can choose to yield and let them cross. To signal to the other driver that you are yielding, you can turn the headlights off momentarily or flash your strong beam.

• Slow down early. As you near the bridge, and you start to notice the signs indicating an upcoming single-lane bridge, reduce speed so you can react in time.

• Stay to the right. Stay close to the curb on your right side, to give possible oncoming traffic the space they need to safely pass you.

• Look ahead. Check if another car is already on the bridge or approaching from the other side.

• Be patient. If you’re unsure, wait and let the other driver go; it’s safer and friendlier.

• Watch for larger vehicles. Buses, trucks, or vehicles towing trailers often need more time and space, so give them priority.

Don’t let single-lane bridges intimidate you! Just take your time, follow the right-of-way rules, and always drive cautiously. With a little patience, crossing them will feel natural, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views waiting on the other side.