LanePoland
Traffic rules
Poland
1. Lane
A lane is a longitudinal part of a roadway intended to accommodate a line of moving vehicles. A roadway may contain one or several lanes for traffic travelling in the same or opposite directions.
Lanes are commonly separated by continuous or broken road markings. Traffic signs, lane arrows and lane-control signals may indicate which vehicles may use a lane, which direction traffic must follow or whether a lane is open or closed.
What is a traffic lane?
A traffic lane is a longitudinal part of a roadway intended for a line of moving vehicles.
Is a lane the same as a roadway?
No. A roadway is the larger area intended for vehicle traffic and may contain one or several individual lanes.
How are traffic lanes normally marked?
Lanes are commonly separated by continuous or broken longitudinal road markings. Their appearance and legal meaning depend on the local traffic-sign system.
Can you cross a broken lane line?
Normally yes, when permitted and safe, for example when changing lane or overtaking. Drivers must still check surrounding traffic and follow local rules.
Can you cross a continuous lane line?
Normally no, except where local law provides a specific exception. A continuous line generally indicates that crossing the marking is prohibited.
Should you signal before changing lane?
Yes. Drivers should indicate their intention in sufficient time and change lane only after making sure the movement can be completed safely.
Who has priority when changing lane?
A driver changing lane generally must give way to traffic already travelling in the lane being entered, although specific merging rules may apply in some situations.
Can a lane be reserved for certain vehicles?
Yes. Particular lanes may be reserved for buses, bicycles, high-occupancy vehicles or other specified traffic according to local signs and regulations.
Can a traffic lane be temporarily closed?
Yes. Lane-control signals, temporary signs, barriers or roadworks markings may close a lane or direct traffic into another lane.
What should you do when your lane ends?
Follow the merging rules and road markings, observe surrounding traffic and move into the continuing lane safely. Special zipper-merging rules may apply during congestion.
What do lane-direction arrows mean?
Arrows painted in a lane can indicate the direction or directions that traffic using that lane must follow, particularly when approaching an intersection.
Should you remain in one lane when possible?
Yes. Avoid unnecessary lane changes. Choose an appropriate lane and change only when needed for overtaking, turning, merging or following the required route.
