Traffic signsUnited States
Traffic rules
United States
76. Horse
A horse is a large domesticated animal that may be ridden, led or used to pull a carriage or other vehicle. Horses can appear on public roads, equestrian trails, rural routes and at crossings where riders or horse-drawn vehicles interact with other traffic.
Drivers approaching a horse should reduce speed, leave sufficient space and avoid sudden noise or movements that could frighten the animal. Riders and people controlling horses must also follow the traffic rules that apply to them.
Wikimedia.org • Bill Price III • CC BY
Can horses use public roads?
Yes, where local traffic rules permit. Horses may be ridden, led or used with animal-drawn vehicles on public roads and designated routes.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 215; national guidance example
Are horse riders considered road users?
Yes. Horse riders using a road are road users and must follow the traffic rules that apply to riders and animals in that country.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 215; national guidance example
77. Local traffic
Local traffic is traffic that needs access to a particular street or area because its journey begins, ends or requires a stop there, rather than simply passing through. Roads may be restricted to local traffic to reduce unnecessary through traffic.
The exact meaning of local traffic depends on national traffic rules. It commonly includes residents, visitors, deliveries and vehicles providing services within the restricted area.
Wikimedia.org • SPUI • CC0
What does local traffic mean?
Local traffic generally means vehicles that have a legitimate reason to enter a particular street or area, such as reaching a home, business, delivery address or other destination located there.
Who may enter a road restricted to local traffic?
This depends on national rules and the signs in place. Residents, visitors, deliveries, emergency services and certain service vehicles are commonly permitted, but the precise categories vary between countries.
78. 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 • Minh Nguyen • 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.
79. 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 • DillyLynn • 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.
80. 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 • Tedder • CC BY
Are motorcycle helmets mandatory in every US state?
No. Helmet laws are made by the individual states. Some cover all riders and passengers, while others are age- or category-specific. Check the rules along your route rather than relying on one nationwide rule.
🔗 nhtsa.gov • NHTSA — state motorcycle helmet laws, differing rider/passenger coverage
81. 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 • Infrogmation • CC BY-SA
Why should other road users take extra care around trucks?
Trucks may have larger blind spots, longer stopping distances and wider turning paths than smaller vehicles, so other road users should avoid remaining unnecessarily close beside or in front of them.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 83–88; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 221–223; national guidance example
82. 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 • Gh9449 • CC0
What is a bus?
A bus is a motor vehicle designed to transport a relatively large number of passengers. It may be used for public transport, school transport, private services or other passenger transport.
🔗 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 buses always have priority when leaving a bus stop?
No. Some countries require other drivers to give way to buses leaving designated stops, particularly in urban areas, while others apply the normal merging rules.
🔗 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 buses have special speed limits?
They can. Some countries impose lower maximum speeds on buses than on passenger cars, particularly on high-speed roads. Different limits may apply to buses and coaches.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 83–88; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 221–223; national guidance example
83. 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 • Davest3r08 • CC BY-SA
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.
84. 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 • Rafaelmanman • 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
85. 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 • Calebrw • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a police officer gives a signal you do not expect?
Slow down, pay close attention and follow the officer's instruction. Do not continue simply because a traffic light or road sign would normally allow you to proceed.
86. Gravel road
A gravel road is an unpaved road surfaced with gravel, crushed stone or similar loose aggregate instead of asphalt or concrete. Gravel roads are commonly found in rural areas, forests, construction zones and locations where a paved surface is unnecessary or impractical.
Drivers on gravel roads should reduce speed when necessary, increase following distance and avoid sudden braking or steering. Loose stones, dust, potholes and reduced tyre grip can make vehicle control more difficult.
Wikimedia.org • Idawriter • CC BY-SA
How should you drive on a gravel road?
Use a suitable speed, maintain extra distance from other vehicles and accelerate, brake and steer smoothly to reduce the risk of losing traction.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example
87. 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
88. Median strip
A median strip, also called a central reservation or median, is an area running longitudinally between separate roadways, usually to divide traffic travelling in opposite directions. It may consist of grass, paving, barriers, vegetation or another physical separation.
A median strip helps separate opposing traffic flows and can reduce the risk of vehicles crossing directly into oncoming traffic. Openings may be provided at selected locations for turning traffic, intersections, emergency access or other authorised movements.
Wikimedia.org • Jakec • CC BY-SA
What is a median strip?
A median strip is a longitudinal area that separates two roadways, usually carrying traffic in opposite directions.
Is a median strip the same as a road marking?
Not necessarily. A median is normally a physically distinguishable area or structure, while painted centre lines simply separate traffic using road markings.
Can pedestrians stand on a median strip?
Some medians contain a pedestrian refuge specifically designed to allow people to cross a road in stages. Other medians may not be intended for pedestrian use.
89. Public property
Public property is land, buildings, infrastructure or other property owned or controlled by a government or other public authority. Examples can include roads, parks, public squares, government buildings, railway infrastructure and other facilities used for public services.
Public property is not necessarily freely accessible to everyone. Some public property is open to general public use, while other areas may have restricted access or be reserved for particular services. Traffic rules depend on whether the area forms part of a public road or another place to which the relevant traffic laws apply.
Wikimedia.org • AbhiSuryawanshi • CC BY-SA
What is public property?
Public property is property belonging to a government, municipality or another public body. For example, council-owned land is public property. Public ownership does not by itself mean that everyone may enter or drive there.
🔗 gov.uk • UK Government, property standard GovS004, April2026
🔗 npt.gov.uk • Neath Port Talbot Council, public-property ownership
What are examples of public property?
Examples include government buildings and council-owned land. Roads, parks and transport facilities can also be publicly owned, but check the actual owner and access rules; a place being open to visitors does not by itself establish public ownership.
🔗 gov.uk • UK Government, property standard GovS004, April2026
🔗 npt.gov.uk • Neath Port Talbot Council, public-property ownership
Do traffic rules automatically apply to all public property?
No. Whether ordinary road-traffic rules apply depends on the legal status and use of the area rather than simply on who owns 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
90. 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.
91. 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
92. 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
93. Interchange
An interchange is a road junction designed to allow traffic to move between two or more major roads, usually using ramps, bridges or tunnels so that conflicting traffic streams do not have to cross at the same level. Interchanges are commonly found on motorways, expressways and other high-capacity roads.
Drivers should follow the direction signs, lane arrows and route numbers in good time and choose the correct lane before reaching the required exit or connecting ramp. Speed limits, merging rules and lane arrangements vary between countries and individual interchanges.
Wikimedia.org • Sea Cow • CC BY-SA
What is an interchange?
An interchange is a system of connecting roads that lets traffic transfer between highways that do not meet at the same level. It uses grade separation, such as bridges or tunnels, together with connecting ramps or roadways.
How should you approach an interchange?
Read the advance-direction signs early, identify your route or destination and move into the appropriate lane in sufficient time.
Can speed limits change on interchange ramps?
Yes. Ramps may have lower speed limits or require a lower safe speed because of bends, merging traffic or limited visibility.
94. Rush hour
Rush hour is a period when roads and public transport networks experience particularly high demand, commonly because large numbers of people are travelling to or from work, school or other regular destinations. It usually occurs during the morning and late afternoon or evening on working days.
Rush-hour traffic can result in congestion, slower speeds, longer journeys and frequent stopping. Drivers should maintain a safe following distance, remain patient, anticipate changing traffic conditions and follow any temporary or dynamic traffic-management measures.
Wikimedia.org • MDRX • CC BY-SA
What is rush hour?
Rush hour is a period when unusually large numbers of people travel at the same time, resulting in increased traffic and often congestion.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 126 and 133–134; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 174 and 192; national guidance example
Should you increase your following distance in rush-hour traffic?
Yes. Leave sufficient distance to react to sudden braking and frequent changes in traffic speed. Avoid following another vehicle too closely even when traffic is moving slowly.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 126 and 133–134; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 174 and 192; national guidance example
Can speed limits change during rush hour?
Yes. Roads equipped with variable traffic management may display lower speed limits during congestion. Drivers must follow the speed limit currently indicated.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 126 and 133–134; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 174 and 192; national guidance example
95. Filling station
A filling station is a facility where motor vehicles can obtain fuel such as petrol, diesel or other vehicle fuels. Many filling stations also provide additional services such as electric vehicle charging, air for tyres, vehicle supplies, toilets, food or a convenience shop.
Filling stations located along major roads and motorways are often indicated by information or service signs. Drivers should reduce speed before entering, follow the designated access routes and take particular care because vehicles and pedestrians may be moving around the station.
Wikimedia.org • Missvain • CC BY
What should you watch for when entering a filling station?
Reduce your speed, follow the designated entrance and traffic direction and watch carefully for vehicles, pedestrians and people moving around the fuel pumps.
96. Road code
A road code is a collection of laws and traffic rules that regulate how people use public roads. It establishes rules for drivers, cyclists, pedestrians and other road users and covers subjects such as priority, speed, overtaking, parking, traffic lights, road signs and road markings.
Road codes differ between countries and sometimes between regions. Every road user is expected to know and follow the rules that apply where they are travelling, even when those rules differ from those in their home country.
Are road codes the same in every country?
No. Although many traffic rules and signs are similar internationally, each country establishes its own traffic legislation and may apply different rules, signs, speed limits and requirements.
97. Two-way traffic
Two-way traffic means that vehicles are permitted to travel in opposite directions on the same road or carriageway. The opposing traffic streams may be separated by road markings, a central reservation or, on narrower roads, no physical separation at all.
Drivers on a two-way road should keep to the side required by local traffic rules, remain aware of approaching vehicles and take particular care when overtaking, turning or passing through narrow sections.
Wikimedia.org • formulanone • CC BY-SA
Why should you take extra care on a two-way road?
Vehicles may approach from the opposite direction, so drivers should maintain a safe position and take particular care when overtaking, turning or passing through narrow sections.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 160–169; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 135–138; national guidance example
98. Passing lane
A passing lane is a traffic lane primarily used for overtaking slower vehicles travelling in the same direction. On roads with several lanes in each direction, it is normally the lane farther from the side used for ordinary driving.
In countries where traffic keeps right, the passing lane is generally on the left; in countries where traffic keeps left, it is generally on the right. Drivers should return to the normal travel lane after overtaking when required by local traffic rules.
Wikimedia.org • Garrett • CC BY
Can you remain in the passing lane after overtaking?
The exact rules vary between countries, but drivers are commonly expected to return to the normal travel lane after completing an overtake when it is safe and required.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 160–169; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 135–138; national guidance example
99. Street gutter
A street gutter is a narrow channel along the edge of a road or street that collects and carries rainwater toward drains or other drainage systems. It is commonly located between the carriageway and the kerb and may be formed from concrete, paving stones or part of the road surface.
A street gutter is primarily a drainage feature rather than a traffic lane. Road users should take care near gutters because they may contain water, debris, drain openings or uneven surfaces.
Wikimedia.org • Airman 1st Class Alystria Maurer • CC0
Why should cyclists take care near street gutters?
Gutters may contain water, leaves, debris, drain covers or uneven surfaces, which can reduce grip or make cycling less stable.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example
100. Road debris
Road debris consists of objects, materials or substances that are lying on or have fallen onto the road and may interfere with traffic. Examples include pieces of vehicles, lost cargo, stones, branches, broken glass, litter and materials spilled from vehicles.
Road debris can create a serious hazard for drivers, cyclists and other road users. Drivers should watch the road ahead, reduce speed when necessary and avoid sudden manoeuvres when safely passing an obstruction.
Wikimedia.org • Jocelyn Augustino • CC0
What should you do when you see debris on the road?
Reduce speed when necessary, maintain control of your vehicle and avoid the debris only when you can do so safely. Avoid sudden braking or steering that could endanger other road users.