Traffic signsGermany
Traffic rules
Germany
101. Axle weight limit
An axle weight limit is the maximum permitted weight or load carried by a single axle of a vehicle. It limits how much force an axle and its wheels may transmit to the road, independently of the vehicle's total weight.
Axle weight limits help protect bridges and road surfaces from excessive loads and contribute to safe vehicle operation. A vehicle can comply with an overall weight limit while still exceeding an axle limit if its load is distributed incorrectly.
Wikimedia.org • GeorgDerReisende • CC BY-SA
What does an axle weight limit mean?
An axle weight limit specifies the maximum permitted load carried by an individual axle or axle group. A vehicle exceeding the indicated axle load may not use the restricted road or structure.
Why are axle weight limits used?
They help prevent excessive stress on roads and structures such as bridges. They also ensure that vehicle loads are distributed safely between the axles.
102. Licence plate
A licence plate, also called a registration plate or number plate, is a plate displaying a unique registration identifier assigned to a vehicle by the competent registration authority. It allows the vehicle to be identified for purposes such as registration, traffic enforcement, taxation, insurance and parking control.
The appearance, format, placement and number of plates required vary between countries and vehicle categories. Drivers must ensure that required licence plates are correctly fitted, clearly visible and legible and must follow the local rules when a plate is lost, stolen, damaged or replaced.
Wikimedia.org • Dennis Elzinga • CC BY
What is a licence plate?
A licence plate is a plate displaying the registration identifier assigned to a vehicle. It allows authorities and other authorised systems to identify the vehicle's registration.
Is a licence plate the same as a registration plate?
Yes. Licence plate, registration plate and number plate are different terms commonly used for the plate displaying a vehicle's official registration number.
What should you do if a licence plate is lost or stolen?
Follow the local reporting and replacement procedure. For example, UK guidance says stolen plates should be reported to the police and DVLA, and replacement plates are needed before driving. Check the registration authority’s procedure for a lost plate; it may differ from the theft process.
103. Charging station
A charging station is a location equipped with one or more charging points where the battery of an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle can be connected to an electricity supply and recharged. Charging stations may be located along public roads, in car parks, at service areas or on private property.
Charging spaces may be reserved for vehicles that are charging and can be subject to parking restrictions, time limits, payment requirements or other conditions. Drivers must follow the traffic signs, parking regulations and charging instructions applying at the location.
Wikimedia.org • 5R-MFT • CC BY-SA
What is a charging station?
A charging station is a location where electric vehicles can be connected to an electricity supply to recharge their batteries. A station may contain one or several individual charging points.
🔗 tfl.gov.uk • Transport for London, electric vehicles and charging points; London example
Who can use an electric-vehicle charging station?
Charging stations are intended for vehicles that can be externally charged, such as battery-electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The exact vehicle categories permitted may be indicated by local signs or operator conditions.
🔗 tfl.gov.uk • Transport for London, electric vehicles and charging points; London example
Can a charging station have a maximum parking time?
Yes. Traffic signs, parking regulations or charging conditions may establish a maximum duration to encourage drivers to move their vehicles and make the charger available to others.
🔗 tfl.gov.uk • Transport for London, electric vehicles and charging points; London example
104. Dangers
A general danger warning sign warns road users of a hazard ahead that is not represented by a more specific warning sign. The particular danger may be explained by a supplementary panel, text, symbol or other indication placed with the warning sign.
Drivers should increase their attention, observe the road ahead and adapt their speed to the nature of the hazard and surrounding conditions. The exact appearance of the sign and the way the danger is identified vary between countries, so road users must follow the local traffic signs and regulations.
Wikimedia.org • AnTic • CC0
What does a general danger warning sign mean?
A general danger warning sign indicates that there is a hazard ahead that is not represented by a more specific warning sign in the local traffic-sign system.
Warning for a danger with no specific traffic sign.
What should you do when you see a general danger warning sign?
Increase your attention, observe the road and surroundings carefully and adapt your speed where necessary so that you can respond safely to the hazard.
Does the sign impose a specific speed limit?
Not normally. A warning sign alerts road users to danger rather than establishing a numerical speed limit. A separate speed-limit sign may be provided where a specific maximum speed is required.
105. Overhanging trees
Overhanging trees are trees whose branches extend over a road, cycle path or footpath and may reduce the available clearance or create a hazard for road users. Low branches can be particularly dangerous for trucks, buses, cyclists and pedestrians and may also obstruct traffic signs, signals or visibility.
Drivers approaching low or overhanging branches should reduce speed, assess the available clearance and avoid sudden manoeuvres. Tall vehicles should take particular care where branches extend above the carriageway.
Wikimedia.org • Kirchenfan • CC0
What should drivers do near low overhanging branches?
Drivers should slow down, check the available clearance and pass only when it can be done safely. They should avoid swerving suddenly into another lane or toward other road users.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example
106. Turn on red
Turn on red is a traffic rule or signal arrangement that allows certain road users to proceed in a specified direction despite a red traffic light. It most commonly permits a turn after the driver has stopped or yielded, but the exact procedure varies between countries.
A turn on red is not universally permitted. It may be allowed generally, only when a specific sign or signal is present, or prohibited entirely. Drivers must always follow the local traffic lights, signs, priority rules and pedestrian or cyclist crossings before proceeding.
Wikimedia.org • JoachimKohler-HB • CC BY-SA
Can motorists turn right at a red light in Germany?
Only under an applicable exception, such as a fixed green-arrow sign (Grünpfeil) beside the red signal. A driver must first stop, turn from the permitted lane and ensure that no other road user is obstructed or endangered. A red light without such permission still means stop.
Does every German green-arrow sign apply to cars?
No. Germany also has a green-arrow sign specifically for cyclists. Its permission is restricted to the indicated road-user category; a motorist must not treat a bicycle-only arrow as permission to turn on red.
107. Rail safety
Rail safety refers to the rules, systems and precautions used to prevent accidents involving trains, railway infrastructure and people who interact with railways. It includes safe train operation, signalling, track protection, level-crossing safety and measures to prevent unauthorised access to railway tracks.
Road users should take particular care at railway crossings and obey barriers, warning lights, audible signals and traffic signs. Railway tracks should be crossed only at authorised locations and only when it is safe to clear them completely.
Wikimedia.org • bigbug21 • CC BY-SA
Do German path users yield to trains without cross signs?
Yes, on pedestrian, cycle, field and forest paths.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, Road Traffic Regulations, section 19, level crossings
How should German drivers approach railway crossings?
At a moderate speed.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, Road Traffic Regulations, section 19, level crossings
Where does Germany ban overtaking motor vehicles near crossings?
From the railway-crossing warning sign, including its three-stripe version, through the crossing.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, Road Traffic Regulations, section 19, level crossings
Can a train's audible warning require German drivers to wait?
Yes, including an approaching train's whistle.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, Road Traffic Regulations, section 19, level crossings
Who must obey German arrow-shaped red crossing signals?
Those intending to travel in the arrow's direction.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, Road Traffic Regulations, section 19, level crossings
Where should German pedestrians wait for trains?
At a safe distance before the crossing.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, Road Traffic Regulations, section 19, level crossings
How should waiting German motorists use headlights?
Avoid dazzling other people.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, Road Traffic Regulations, section 19, level crossings
108. Pedestrian
A pedestrian is a person travelling on foot along or across a road, street, path or other public space. Depending on local traffic law, people pushing bicycles, wheelchairs, prams or certain other small devices may also be treated as pedestrians.
Pedestrians normally use pavements, sidewalks, footpaths and pedestrian areas where these are available. When crossing a road or walking where no suitable pedestrian facility exists, they must follow the applicable crossing rules, traffic lights and other local traffic regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Niteshift • CC BY-SA
What is a pedestrian?
A pedestrian is primarily a person travelling on foot. Local traffic laws may also treat people pushing bicycles, wheelchairs, prams or certain other devices as pedestrians.
Which side of the road should pedestrians walk on when there is no pavement?
This depends on the country's traffic rules. Many countries require or recommend pedestrians to face approaching traffic, but the exact rule varies.
Do pedestrians always have priority at a pedestrian crossing?
The exact priority rule varies between countries. Drivers are commonly required to give way to pedestrians using or entering designated crossings, but pedestrians must still obey traffic lights and avoid entering the road dangerously.
109. Cyclist
A cyclist is a person who rides and controls a bicycle. Cyclists are road users and, in many countries, bicycles are legally treated as vehicles, meaning cyclists must follow many of the same traffic rules that apply to other drivers together with rules specifically intended for cycling.
Cyclists should use designated cycling facilities where required, obey traffic signs and signals and ride in a predictable and safe manner. The exact rules governing road position, priority, equipment and permitted cycling areas vary between countries.
Wikimedia.org • Radosław Drożdżewski • CC BY-SA
Where should cyclists ride?
This depends on local rules. Cyclists may be required to use a cycle path or designated cycling facility, while in other situations they may ride on the carriageway.
110. Moped
A moped is a lightweight motor vehicle, usually with two or three wheels, whose power, engine capacity or maximum design speed is limited by law. Mopeds generally occupy a legal category between bicycles and motorcycles, although their exact classification varies between countries.
Special rules may apply concerning the minimum riding age, driving licence, helmet, registration, insurance, maximum speed and use of cycle paths or roadways. Riders must therefore follow the classification and traffic regulations applying in the country where they are travelling.
Wikimedia.org • Frank Vincentz • CC BY-SA
What is a moped?
A moped is a lightweight motor vehicle whose engine power, capacity or maximum design speed is restricted by law. The precise technical definition differs between countries.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 83–88; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 221–223; national guidance example
Is a moped the same as a motorcycle?
Mopeds commonly form a lower-speed or lower-power vehicle category, but their legal relationship to motorcycles varies. Some traffic laws treat certain mopeds as motorcycles or apply other special rules. Check the local technical, access and licensing definitions.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 83–88; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 221–223; national guidance example
Do moped riders have to wear a helmet?
Helmet requirements vary between countries, but an approved protective helmet is compulsory for moped riders in many jurisdictions. Passengers may also be required to wear one.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 83–88; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 221–223; national guidance example
111. Motorcycle
A motorcycle is a motor-powered vehicle with two wheels, with or without a sidecar. Motorcycles include many different types and sizes of vehicles designed for road travel, recreation, touring or other purposes.
Motorcyclists should maintain full control of the motorcycle, obey the applicable traffic rules and use appropriate protective equipment. Licensing, helmet, equipment and road-use requirements vary between countries.
Wikimedia.org • Frank Vincentz • CC BY-SA
What protective equipment should a motorcyclist use?
Motorcyclists should use an approved helmet and suitable protective clothing. The exact mandatory equipment depends on the country's traffic laws.
🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Article 27; 🔗 gov.uk • UK Highway Code, motorcyclists, Rules 83–88
112. Car
A car is a motor vehicle primarily designed to transport a small number of people and their luggage on roads. Cars may be powered by petrol, diesel, electricity, hydrogen or a combination of different energy sources.
Drivers must comply with the applicable requirements concerning the driving licence, vehicle registration, insurance, technical condition, seat belts and passenger safety. Speed limits, equipment requirements, road access and other traffic rules vary between countries, so drivers must follow the local traffic signs and regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Atamari • CC BY-SA
What is a car?
A car is a motor vehicle primarily designed to carry a relatively small number of passengers and their luggage on roads.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 83–88; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 221–223; national guidance example
Is a car the same as a motor vehicle?
No. A car is a type of motor vehicle. The broader category of motor vehicles can also include motorcycles, buses, trucks, mopeds and other powered vehicles, depending on local legal definitions.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 83–88; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 221–223; national guidance example
Must people in a car wear seat belts?
Where seat belts are fitted, drivers and passengers are generally required to wear them correctly. Exact requirements and exemptions vary between countries.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 83–88; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 221–223; national guidance example
113. Truck
A truck is a motor vehicle designed primarily for transporting goods. Trucks range from relatively small delivery vehicles to large heavy goods vehicles and articulated combinations used for long-distance freight transport.
Because trucks are generally larger, heavier and slower to manoeuvre than passenger cars, they require more space for turning and braking and often have larger blind spots. Specific speed, lane-use, overtaking and access rules may apply depending on the vehicle's weight and the country.
Wikimedia.org • Kleeblatt187 • CC BY-SA
Can heavy goods vehicles operate normally on Sundays in Germany?
Not generally for commercial goods transport. German road law restricts specified trucks with a permissible gross mass over 7.5 tonnes and trucks with trailers on Sundays and listed public holidays from 00:00 to 22:00, subject to statutory exceptions and permits.
114. Bus
A bus is a motor vehicle designed to transport multiple passengers, usually along roads as part of public transport, school transport, private transport or another passenger service. Buses generally have more passenger capacity than cars and may be designed to carry seated passengers, standing passengers or both.
Special rules may apply to buses concerning the driving licence, passenger capacity, speed limits, seat belts, bus lanes, stops and passenger boarding. The legal classification of buses and coaches and the rules applying to them vary between countries, so drivers and passengers must follow the local traffic regulations.
Wikimedia.org • calflier001 • CC BY-SA
How should you pass a stopped bus with hazard lights in Germany?
At a marked stop, a scheduled bus or marked school bus displaying hazard warning lights may generally be passed only at walking speed, with appropriate clearance. Drivers must also allow buses to leave designated stops; other restrictions apply when a bus approaches a stop with hazards on.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, StVO section20 — public-transport vehicles and passenger stops
115. Police
Police are public authorities responsible for enforcing laws, maintaining public safety and managing situations that may affect road traffic. In traffic, police officers may control vehicles, enforce traffic rules, investigate collisions, direct traffic and respond to emergencies.
Road users must follow lawful instructions given by police officers or other authorised traffic-control personnel. Police directions may temporarily override traffic lights, road signs or normal traffic arrangements, depending on local law.
Wikimedia.org • Sicherlich • CC BY
What is the role of police in road traffic?
Police help enforce traffic law, investigate collisions and respond to risks on the road. For example, Greater Manchester Police describe targeted road enforcement, a round-the-clock roads-policing response and specialist serious-collision investigation. Exact responsibilities and powers vary by jurisdiction.
🔗 gmp.police.uk • Greater Manchester Police, Roads Policing Strategy2024–2026
Must you obey a police officer directing traffic?
Yes. Lawful directions given by an authorised police officer must be followed. In many countries, those directions take precedence over traffic lights, road signs and normal priority rules.
What should you do if police signal you to stop?
Slow down, follow the officer's directions and stop at a safe location as instructed. Do not make sudden movements or continue driving unless directed to do so.
116. Ambulance
An ambulance is a vehicle equipped and used to provide emergency medical assistance or transport patients to or between healthcare facilities. Ambulances may carry medical equipment and trained personnel who can provide treatment during transport.
During an emergency response, an ambulance may use warning lights and a siren and may receive special priority or exemptions from certain traffic rules. Other road users must follow the local rules for emergency vehicles, make sufficient space and avoid obstructing their passage.
Wikimedia.org • Mirko Riemer • CC BY-SA
What is an ambulance?
An ambulance is a specially equipped vehicle used to provide emergency medical assistance and transport sick or injured people.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 219, emergency vehicles; national guidance example
What should you do when an ambulance approaches?
Make space safely for an ambulance on an emergency response, following the local rules and any lawful directions. Slow down or stop where necessary without sudden or dangerous movements. Do not assume that its emergency status allows you to pass a red light or disregard another traffic control.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 219, emergency vehicles; national guidance example
Can an ambulance exceed the speed limit?
Many countries permit emergency vehicles to depart from certain normal speed rules during an urgent mission, subject to safety requirements and national legislation.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 219, emergency vehicles; national guidance example
117. Taxi
A taxi is a vehicle used to transport passengers for payment, usually providing individual or small-group journeys between locations chosen by the passenger. Taxi services may operate from designated taxi stands, accept street hails or be booked by telephone or digital platform.
Taxis are commonly identified by special markings, roof signs, licence plates or local taxi permits. The licensing, fare and operating rules vary between countries and cities.
Wikimedia.org • CC0
Are taxis regulated?
Yes. Taxi services are generally subject to licensing and operating requirements, although the exact rules concerning vehicles, drivers, fares and permitted operating areas vary between jurisdictions.
118. Police signals
Police signals are hand gestures, body positions, lights or other signals used by police officers or other authorised persons to control traffic. They may require road users to stop, proceed, change direction or follow another temporary traffic arrangement.
Road users should observe and obey police signals even when they differ from the normal traffic signs or signals. The exact gestures and their meanings vary between countries.
Wikimedia.org • Video2005 • CC BY-SA
What does a German police officer raising one arm at a junction mean?
A raised arm means traffic approaching the junction must wait for the next signal; road users already in the junction should clear it. Officers’ directions take precedence over other traffic controls but do not remove the duty to drive carefully.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, StVO section36 — police directions and signals
What does a police officer holding an arm sideways mean in Germany?
At an intersection, an officer extending an arm sideways across a traffic approach orders that approach to stop, while cross traffic may proceed. Follow the officer’s actual gesture rather than guessing from traffic-light colours.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, StVO section36 — police directions and signals
119. Tailgating
Tailgating means driving too closely behind another vehicle without leaving enough distance to react and stop safely if the vehicle ahead slows down or stops suddenly. The safe following distance depends on factors such as speed, road conditions, weather and visibility.
Drivers should leave sufficient space between their vehicle and the vehicle ahead and increase that distance in rain, snow, fog or other conditions that increase stopping distance.
Wikimedia.org • Frank Vincentz • CC BY-SA
When should you increase your following distance?
You should increase the distance in conditions such as rain, snow, ice, fog, darkness or poor road surfaces and whenever visibility or tyre grip is reduced.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example
120. European emission standard
A European emission standard, commonly called a Euro standard, is a European vehicle classification based on limits for pollutants emitted by vehicles and their engines. Successive standards, such as Euro 4, Euro 5 and Euro 6, introduced progressively stricter requirements for pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons.
A vehicle's Euro standard is determined as part of its type approval and depends on factors including the vehicle category, fuel type and applicable emissions legislation when it was approved. Euro standards may also be used by authorities to determine access to low-emission zones, but local access rules vary between countries and cities.
Wikimedia.org • Rfeba • CC0
What is a European emission standard?
A European emission standard, or Euro standard, classifies vehicles according to the emissions requirements they had to satisfy when approved for use in the European market.
🔗 consilium.europa.eu • Council of the EU, Euro 7 adoption explanation, 12 April 2024
What do Euro 4, Euro 5 and Euro 6 mean?
Euro 4, Euro 5 and Euro 6 identify successive stages of European vehicle-pollutant requirements. The applicable limits depend on the vehicle, engine and pollutant, so a higher number does not mean that every individual numerical limit changed. Later stages can also alter testing and durability requirements.
🔗 consilium.europa.eu • Council of the EU, Euro 7 adoption explanation, 12 April 2024
Can petrol and diesel vehicles with the same Euro number have different emission limits?
Yes. The applicable emission limits and testing requirements can differ according to the vehicle category, engine and fuel type even when vehicles belong to the same general Euro generation.
🔗 consilium.europa.eu • Council of the EU, Euro 7 adoption explanation, 12 April 2024
121. Pothole
A pothole is a hole or depression in the road surface caused by wear, weather, water, repeated traffic loads or deterioration of the pavement. Potholes can vary greatly in size and depth and may develop gradually or become worse after freezing, heavy rain or repeated vehicle traffic.
Potholes can affect steering, braking and vehicle stability and may damage tyres, wheels or suspension components. Drivers and riders should observe the road ahead, adapt their speed and avoid sudden or dangerous manoeuvres when encountering damaged road surfaces.
Wikimedia.org • State Farm • CC BY
What is a pothole?
A pothole is a hole or depression that develops in a road surface when the pavement becomes damaged or deteriorates.
What should you do when you see a pothole?
Reduce speed when necessary, maintain control of the vehicle and avoid abrupt steering or braking. Only move around the pothole when this can be done safely without endangering other road users.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example
Are potholes dangerous for cyclists?
Yes. Bicycle wheels can be strongly affected by deep holes or sharp edges, particularly when the cyclist has little time or space to avoid the hazard.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example
122. Private property
Private property is land, buildings or other property owned or controlled by a private person, company or organisation rather than by a public authority. Examples can include private homes, driveways, company grounds, private car parks and access roads.
Private property may be completely closed to the public or may allow access to customers, visitors or other authorised users. The traffic rules that apply depend not only on ownership but also on whether the area is open to public traffic and how it is legally classified.
Wikimedia.org • Günter Haase • CC BY-SA
What is private property?
Private property is property belonging to a private person or group, rather than being available for everyone’s use. In a road context, check the actual access rules before entering private land.
🔗 dictionary.cambridge.org • Cambridge Dictionary, ordinary private-property definition
Do road traffic rules apply on every private driveway?
Not necessarily. The applicable rules depend on the legal status and accessibility of the area. A driveway used only by its owner is different from a privately owned road that is open to general traffic.
🔗 ris.bka.gv.at • Austria, StVO section 1, scope of roads with/without public traffic
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, StVO section 10, entering from property
What should you do when leaving private property and entering a road?
Enter carefully and follow the applicable rules for joining traffic from a driveway or adjoining property. In many countries, the driver entering the road must give way to road users already using it.
🔗 ris.bka.gv.at • Austria, StVO section 1, scope of roads with/without public traffic
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, StVO section 10, entering from property
123. Path
A path is a relatively narrow route intended for pedestrians and, where permitted, other road users or small vehicles. Paths may run through urban areas, countryside, parks, forests or between other roads and can be surfaced or unsurfaced.
A path is not necessarily the same as a footpath or cycle path. The road users permitted to use it depend on its legal status, width, traffic signs and local regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Tangopaso • CC0
Is a path the same as a footpath?
Not necessarily. A footpath is specifically intended for pedestrians, while a path may also permit cyclists or other users according to local rules.
Can cyclists use a path?
This depends on the legal status, width and signs applying to the path. Some paths permit cyclists, while others are reserved for pedestrians or particular users.
Can motor vehicles use a path?
This depends on local law. Some paths prohibit motor vehicles entirely, while narrow vehicles may be permitted on other paths unless traffic signs restrict access.
Who has priority when a path joins a larger road?
The applicable local priority rules determine who must give way. Special rules often apply when a minor path joins an ordinary road.
124. Particulates
Particulates, or particulate matter (PM), are tiny solid particles or liquid droplets suspended in the air. In road traffic, particulate emissions can come from vehicle exhaust, brake wear, tyre wear and road-surface wear, as well as dust that is disturbed by passing traffic.
Particulate matter is commonly classified by particle size. PM10 refers to particles with a diameter of up to approximately 10 micrometres, while PM2.5 refers to finer particles of up to approximately 2.5 micrometres. Vehicle emission standards, particulate filters and air-quality measures are used to reduce exposure to these pollutants.
Wikimedia.org • wili hybrid • CC BY
What are particulates?
Particulates, or particulate matter, are very small solid particles or liquid droplets suspended in the air.
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, Particulate Matter Basics
🔗 fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, particulate matter and road-transport sources
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, AP-42 section 13.2.1.1, paved-road emissions and dust resuspension
What are PM10 and PM2.5?
PM10 refers to particles with a diameter of up to approximately 10 micrometres. PM2.5 refers to finer particles with a diameter of up to approximately 2.5 micrometres.
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, Particulate Matter Basics
🔗 fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, particulate matter and road-transport sources
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, AP-42 section 13.2.1.1, paved-road emissions and dust resuspension
Where do traffic particulates come from?
Road traffic can produce particles through engine exhaust, brake wear, tyre wear and road-surface wear. Passing traffic can also resuspend dust already present on the road.
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, Particulate Matter Basics
🔗 fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, particulate matter and road-transport sources
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, AP-42 section 13.2.1.1, paved-road emissions and dust resuspension
125. Air pollution
Air pollution is the presence of gases, particles or other substances in the air at concentrations that can harm human health, the environment or ecosystems. Road traffic contributes to air pollution through exhaust emissions and through non-exhaust sources such as brake wear, tyre wear and road dust.
Important traffic-related pollutants include nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds. Some pollutants are emitted directly by vehicles, while others can form in the atmosphere through chemical reactions. Vehicle-emission standards, cleaner technologies and traffic-management measures are used to reduce these emissions.
Wikimedia.org • Emmanuelkwizera • CC BY-SA
What is air pollution?
Air pollution is the presence of harmful gases, particles or other contaminants in the air. Road transport can contribute through engine emissions, vehicle wear and dust; the sources and pollutants differ by vehicle and conditions.
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, smog and vehicle emissions
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, Particulate Matter Basics
🔗 fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, particulate matter and road-transport sources
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, AP-42 section 13.2.1.1, paved-road emissions and dust resuspension
How does road traffic cause air pollution?
Vehicles with combustion engines can emit exhaust pollutants. Road traffic also produces particles through brake, tyre and road-surface wear and can stir up road dust. Vehicles without tailpipe emissions can still contribute to these non-exhaust sources.
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, smog and vehicle emissions
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, Particulate Matter Basics
🔗 fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, particulate matter and road-transport sources
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, AP-42 section 13.2.1.1, paved-road emissions and dust resuspension
Which air pollutants are associated with road traffic?
Important traffic-related pollutants include nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds. Their relative importance depends on the vehicle, fuel and driving conditions.
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, smog and vehicle emissions
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, Particulate Matter Basics
🔗 fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, particulate matter and road-transport sources
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, AP-42 section 13.2.1.1, paved-road emissions and dust resuspension