One-way trafficJapan

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12. One-way traffic

One-way traffic means that vehicles on a road or carriageway may travel only in one designated direction. The permitted direction is normally indicated by traffic signs, lane arrows or road markings.

Some road users, such as cyclists or public-transport vehicles, may be allowed to travel in the opposite direction when signs expressly permit it. A one-way road does not by itself determine the speed limit, priority or parking rules.

One-way traffic
One-way traffic sign in Arashiyama. (Kyoto, Japan)
Wikimedia.org • 運動会プロテインパワー • CC BY-SA
What is a one-way road?

A one-way road is a road or carriageway on which vehicles may travel only in the designated direction.

How can you recognise one-way traffic?

One-way traffic is normally indicated by a one-way sign at the entrance and a no-entry sign at the opposite end. Lane arrows and road markings may provide additional guidance.

Is a one-way sign the same as a no-entry sign?

No. A one-way sign confirms the permitted direction of travel. A no-entry sign prohibits drivers from entering from the opposite direction.

Does one-way traffic apply to the entire road?

It may apply to an entire road, one carriageway, a particular lane or only a designated section. Drivers must follow the signs and markings applying to the part of the road they use.

Can a divided road have one-way traffic on each carriageway?

Yes. On a divided road, each carriageway normally carries traffic in one direction even though the road as a whole carries traffic in both directions.

May cyclists travel against one-way traffic?

Only when traffic signs or local law expressly permit contraflow cycling. Drivers should check supplementary signs and remain alert for cyclists approaching from the opposite direction.

May buses travel against one-way traffic?

Public-transport vehicles may use a contraflow lane where signs and road markings permit it. Other drivers may not use that lane unless they are also authorised.

Does a one-way road have its own speed limit?

No. The applicable speed depends on the country, road type, surrounding area and traffic signs.

Does one-way traffic change priority at intersections?

No. Drivers must continue to follow traffic lights, priority signs and the ordinary local priority rules.

Does traffic on a one-way road always have priority?

No. The one-way designation regulates direction of travel, not priority. Traffic entering or crossing the road may still have priority under signs or local law.

Which lane should you use on a one-way road?

Follow the local lane-positioning rules, lane arrows and destination signs. Drivers commonly keep to the normal side of the road unless overtaking, turning or choosing a marked lane.

Where should you position yourself before turning?

Use the lane or side indicated for the intended direction. On many one-way roads, drivers turning towards the opposite side of the road may position themselves closer to that side before turning.

May you overtake on a one-way road?

Overtaking may be permitted where there is sufficient space and no sign or rule prohibits it. The normal overtaking side and safety requirements continue to apply unless local law provides otherwise.

May you reverse on a one-way road?

A short reversing manoeuvre may be permitted where local law allows it and it can be completed safely. Drivers must not use reversing to travel along the road in the prohibited direction.

May you make a U-turn on a one-way road?

You may not turn around and continue against the permitted direction. A U-turn may also be prohibited by signs or general traffic law.

May you park on both sides of a one-way road?

This depends on local law, signs, markings and the available width. Some countries permit parking along either side, while others retain stricter positioning rules.

Can pedestrians come from both directions?

Yes. One-way traffic restrictions normally apply to vehicles using the carriageway, not to pedestrians using pavements or other pedestrian facilities.

Should you still check both directions?

Yes. Cyclists, buses, emergency vehicles or other authorised users may approach from the opposite direction. Drivers should check both directions before turning, crossing or opening a vehicle door.

What should you do if you enter a one-way road incorrectly?

Do not continue against traffic. Stop somewhere safe without creating additional danger and follow lawful directions to leave or correct the situation. Do not reverse blindly into an intersection.

How does one-way traffic end?

The restriction may end at an end sign, an intersection, a change in road design or a sign warning that two-way traffic resumes. Follow the local signs and road layout.

1 Japan 2 Motorway 3 Expressway 4 Zone 5 Speed limit 6 Minimum speed 7 Footpath 8 Bike path 9 Shared-use path 10 Tunnel 11 Toll road 12 One-way traffic 13 Quay 14 Slope 15 Bus lane 16 Bus stop 17 Stop sign 18 Give way 19 Roundabout 20 Road narrowing 21 Pedestrian crossing 22 Railway crossing 23 Mandatory direction 24 Turn prohibition 25 School area 26 Overtaking 27 Crossing animals 28 Slippery road 29 Rockfall 30 Curve 31 Wrong-way driving 32 Roadworks 33 Crosswind 34 Height limit 35 Width limit 36 Weight limit 37 Radar speed sign 38 Selective barriers 39 Intersection direction sign 40 Traffic lights 41 Traffic lights warning 42 Pedestrian lights 43 Road markings 44 Driving licence 45 Location marker 46 Traffic mirror 47 Emergency telephone 48 Cycling route 49 Parking 50 No parking 51 No stopping 52 Disabled parking 53 Traffic management 54 Reversing 55 U-turn 56 Uncontrolled crossroad 57 Road surface 58 Provisional licence 59 Emergency exit 60 City limit 61 Horn 62 Licence plate 63 Charging station 64 Dangers 65 Pedestrian 66 Cyclist 67 Moped 68 Motorcycle 69 Car 70 Truck 71 Bus 72 Police 73 Ambulance 74 Pothole 75 Path 76 Particulates 77 Air pollution 78 Rush hour 79 Road code 80 Two-way traffic 81 Street gutter 82 Cargo bike 83 Forestry vehicle 84 Construction vehicle 85 Semi-trailer truck 86 Trolleybus 87 Speed pedelec 88 Delivery vehicle 89 Idling 90 Tow truck 91 Four-wheel drive 92 No vehicles 93 Bicycle 94 Motorcycle equipment 95 Tram 96 Rail track 97 Caravan 98 Trailer 99 Tow hitch 100 Fire truck ...