Pedestrian underpassSpain
Traffic rules
Spain
36. Pedestrian underpass
A pedestrian underpass is a passage that allows pedestrians to travel beneath a road, railway or other obstacle without crossing the traffic route at the same level. It is a form of grade-separated pedestrian crossing.
Pedestrian underpasses may be reached by stairs, ramps or lifts and can form part of a wider footpath or pedestrian network. Cyclists and other users may use the underpass only when the design, signs and local regulations permit them to do so.
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What is a pedestrian underpass?
A pedestrian underpass is a passage that allows pedestrians to cross beneath a road, railway or other obstacle without entering the traffic route above.
Why are pedestrian underpasses used?
They separate pedestrians from motor vehicles, trains or other traffic, reducing direct conflicts at busy or high-speed crossings.
Is a pedestrian underpass the same as a tunnel?
Not exactly. A pedestrian underpass is specifically intended to allow pedestrians to pass beneath an obstacle, while a tunnel can carry roads, railways, pedestrians or other forms of transport.
Is an underpass the same as a pedestrian overpass?
No. An underpass passes beneath the obstacle, while an overpass or footbridge carries pedestrians above it. Both provide grade-separated crossings.
Can cyclists use a pedestrian underpass?
This depends on the signs and design of the facility. Some underpasses are shared with cyclists, while pedestrian-only underpasses may require cyclists to dismount.
Can a pedestrian underpass have a cycle path?
Yes. Some underpasses contain separate or shared pedestrian and cycle facilities so both categories can cross safely away from motor traffic.
Can motor vehicles use a pedestrian underpass?
No when the passage is specifically reserved for pedestrians. Maintenance or emergency access may be permitted in exceptional circumstances.
Can an underpass be accessible to wheelchairs?
Yes, when suitably designed. Ramps or lifts can provide step-free access, although accessibility depends on the individual facility.
Do pedestrians have to follow signs inside an underpass?
Yes. Users must follow any signs indicating permitted users, direction of travel, separated sections or temporary closures.
Can a pedestrian underpass be temporarily closed?
Yes. Maintenance, flooding, construction, safety concerns or other circumstances may require temporary closure or diversion.
Does an underpass give pedestrians priority over traffic above?
The underpass physically separates the movements, so pedestrians do not directly cross the traffic route above. Priority rules still apply wherever the pedestrian route later crosses another roadway or cycle facility.
What should cyclists do in a pedestrian-only underpass?
Where cycling is not permitted, cyclists should dismount and continue on foot if pedestrian access with a bicycle is allowed.
