Traffic signsUnited States
Traffic rules
United States
101. Cargo bike
A cargo bike is a bicycle designed to transport goods, children or other larger loads than can normally be carried on a conventional bicycle. Cargo bikes may use a box or platform in front of or behind the rider, an extended rear carrier or a multi-wheel design.
Cargo bikes can be powered entirely by the rider or equipped with electric pedal assistance. Their permitted dimensions, passenger capacity, use of cycle paths and electrical-assistance limits depend on the local traffic and vehicle regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Clément Bucco-Lechat • CC BY-SA
What is a cargo bike?
A cargo bike is a bicycle designed to carry goods, children or larger loads than a conventional bicycle.
🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule
🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example
Can a cargo bike carry children?
Yes, when it is designed and equipped for passenger transport. Children should use the seats, restraints, foot protection or other safety equipment provided by the manufacturer and required by local law.
🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule
🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example
Is a helmet compulsory on a cargo bike?
This depends on the country's bicycle rules and the vehicle's classification. A model legally classified as a faster motorised vehicle may have different helmet requirements from an ordinary cargo bicycle.
🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule
🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example
102. Lane splitting
Lane splitting is the practice of riding a motorcycle or another permitted two-wheeled vehicle between two lanes or queues of traffic travelling in the same direction. When it is done through stationary or slow-moving traffic, it is also commonly called lane filtering.
Lane splitting can reduce the time motorcycles spend in congestion but requires particular care because vehicles may change lanes, open gaps or move unexpectedly. Whether lane splitting is permitted, which vehicles may do it and any applicable speed limits depend on the local traffic laws.
Wikimedia.org • Eric Schmuttenmaer • CC BY-SA
Can a motorcycle lane split in California?
California permits motorcycles to share lanes, a practice known as lane splitting. Riders still need to make the manoeuvre safely; California’s permission must not be generalised to every US state.
How is Utah’s lane-filtering permission more limited than California’s?
Utah permits motorcycle filtering only under stated conditions: at least two adjacent lanes in the same direction, the vehicle being passed stopped, the motorcycle travelling at no more than 15 mph and a safe manoeuvre. The road normally must have a speed limit of 45 mph or less, but qualifying off-ramps are an exception to that speed-limit condition. Filtering is not permitted on an on-ramp. These Utah conditions differ from California’s lane-splitting rules.
103. Forestry vehicle
A forestry vehicle is a vehicle designed, equipped or adapted for work connected with forestry and woodland management. It may be used to pull machinery, transport timber, carry equipment or perform operations such as harvesting, forwarding or maintaining forest land.
Forestry vehicles can include tractors, specialised self-propelled machines, trailers and interchangeable equipment. Their registration, driving-licence requirements, maximum speed, road access and technical requirements depend on the vehicle's legal classification and the local traffic regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Antti Leppänen • CC BY-SA
What is a forestry vehicle?
A forestry vehicle is a vehicle designed or adapted for forestry work, such as pulling machinery, carrying equipment, transporting timber or working on forest land.
Do forestry vehicles have special speed limits?
They may. The permitted speed can depend on the vehicle's construction speed, mass, road type and local traffic rules. Posted speed limits must also be respected.
Can forestry equipment extend beyond the normal width of the vehicle?
Yes. Machinery and attached implements can make a forestry vehicle unusually wide or long. Check the applicable dimensions and special-vehicle rules before using the road. British guidance, for example, includes attached implements in width checks and describes extra arrangements for wide agricultural or forestry vehicles.
🔗 gov.uk • DfT, tractors and tracked vehicles on public roads
104. Construction vehicle
A construction vehicle is a vehicle or mobile machine designed or adapted for work connected with construction, roadworks, excavation, lifting or the movement of materials. Examples include excavators, loaders, bulldozers, road rollers, mobile cranes, dump trucks and concrete mixers.
Construction vehicles vary greatly in size, speed and legal classification. Some are ordinary road vehicles, while others are specialised machines intended mainly for use on construction sites. When travelling on public roads, they must comply with the applicable registration, licensing, lighting, dimensions, weight, speed and traffic rules.
Wikimedia.org • Sunridin • CC BY
What is a construction vehicle?
A construction vehicle is a vehicle or mobile machine used for construction, excavation, lifting, roadworks or transporting construction materials.
Do construction vehicles have special speed limits?
They may. The permitted speed can depend on the vehicle’s design, mass, legal category and the road. Do not assume that a construction machine has the same limit as a car; follow both the road limit and any lower vehicle-specific limit.
What should you do when passing a construction vehicle?
Reduce speed where necessary and leave sufficient space. Be aware of blind spots, projecting equipment, wide turns and workers who may be present nearby.
105. Semi-trailer truck
A semi-trailer truck is a combination consisting of a road tractor and a semi-trailer used primarily for transporting goods. The semi-trailer is coupled to the tractor so that a significant part of its weight is supported by the tractor rather than entirely by its own wheels.
Semi-trailer trucks are commonly used for long-distance freight transport and may carry containers, refrigerated goods, liquids, bulk materials or other cargo. Special rules can apply concerning driving licences, maximum dimensions and masses, speed limits, lane use, overtaking, loading and driving and rest periods.
Wikimedia.org • High Contrast • CC BY
What is a semi-trailer truck?
A semi-trailer truck consists of a powered road tractor coupled to a semi-trailer primarily used to transport goods.
What is the difference between a semi-trailer and an ordinary trailer?
A semi-trailer is designed so that a substantial part of its own weight and load is supported by the towing vehicle. Other trailer designs support the load differently; some also impose a vertical load on the towing vehicle. Check the actual trailer and coupling ratings.
Do semi-trailer trucks have lower speed limits?
They often do. Many countries impose vehicle-specific maximum speeds on heavy goods vehicles, particularly on motorways and other high-speed roads.
106. Trolleybus
A trolleybus is an electrically powered bus that normally obtains its energy from overhead electrical wires through current collectors mounted on the vehicle. Unlike a tram, a trolleybus runs on ordinary road wheels and is steered by its driver rather than being guided by rails.
Trolleybuses are generally used for public passenger transport and may use bus lanes, stops and other public-transport infrastructure. Some modern trolleybuses also have batteries or auxiliary power systems that allow them to travel short distances without remaining connected to the overhead wires.
Wikimedia.org • Carl-Johan Aberger • CC0
What is a trolleybus?
A trolleybus is an electrically powered bus that normally receives electricity from overhead wires while travelling on ordinary road wheels.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 223, buses; national guidance example
Is a trolleybus the same as a tram?
No. A tram runs on rails and follows the path of its tracks. A trolleybus has ordinary tyres and is steered like a conventional bus.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 223, buses; national guidance example
Do trolleybuses have priority when leaving stops?
This depends on the local traffic law. Some countries require other drivers to allow public-transport buses, including trolleybuses, to leave designated stops.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 223, buses; national guidance example
107. Speed pedelec
A speed pedelec is a high-speed electrically assisted bicycle whose motor can continue providing pedal assistance above the normal electric-bicycle assistance limit, typically up to approximately 45 km/h. It has pedals and is primarily designed to assist the rider while pedalling.
Because of its higher speed, a speed pedelec may legally be treated differently from an ordinary bicycle or electric bicycle. Special rules can apply concerning the minimum age, driving licence, helmet, registration, insurance, cycle-path use and permitted roads, depending on the country.
Wikimedia.org • Sänger • CC BY-SA
What is a speed pedelec?
In the Belgian example, a speed pedelec is an electrically assisted pedal vehicle in a faster legal category, with assistance up to 45 km/h. Other countries may classify faster electric bicycles differently; the name alone does not establish their legal status.
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, Riding an electric bike: the rules; GB EAPC example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 59–82, cycling; national guidance example
What is the difference between a speed pedelec and an ordinary electric bicycle?
The assistance cut-off differs. For example, Belgium’s ordinary pedal-assisted cycle category uses a 25 km/h cut-off, while a speed pedelec can provide assistance up to 45 km/h. These are assistance and classification rules, not a universal maximum speed every bicycle can physically reach.
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, Riding an electric bike: the rules; GB EAPC example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 59–82, cycling; national guidance example
Is a helmet compulsory on a speed pedelec?
Helmet requirements vary between countries, but because speed pedelecs travel considerably faster than ordinary bicycles, specific helmet requirements commonly apply.
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, Riding an electric bike: the rules; GB EAPC example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 59–82, cycling; national guidance example
108. Delivery vehicle
A delivery vehicle is a vehicle used to transport and deliver goods, parcels, supplies or other items to homes, businesses or other destinations. Delivery vehicles can include vans, trucks, cars, motorcycles, cargo bicycles and other vehicles depending on the type and quantity of goods being transported.
Delivery vehicles must follow the ordinary traffic rules applying to their vehicle category as well as any specific rules concerning loading and unloading, restricted-access areas, parking, vehicle dimensions and low-emission zones. Permission to make a delivery does not automatically allow a vehicle to stop or park anywhere.
Wikimedia.org • 28704869 • CC BY
What is a delivery vehicle?
A delivery vehicle is a vehicle used to transport goods, parcels, supplies or other items to a particular destination.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 123, stationary engines; national guidance example
Can a delivery vehicle stop to load or unload goods?
Yes, where stopping is legally permitted. Many traffic systems distinguish genuine loading or unloading from ordinary parking when the vehicle remains only for the time necessary to perform the activity.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 123, stationary engines; national guidance example
Can delivery vehicles enter pedestrian zones?
Only where local rules or signs specifically allow delivery access. Access may be limited to certain hours, and vehicles may be required to travel at very low speed and give priority to pedestrians.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 123, stationary engines; national guidance example
109. Idling
Idling means allowing a vehicle's engine to continue running while the vehicle is stationary and the engine is not being used to move the vehicle. This may occur while waiting, parking, loading or unloading or before beginning a journey.
Unnecessary idling consumes fuel and produces exhaust emissions, air pollution and noise. Many countries or local authorities restrict prolonged or unnecessary idling, although exceptions may apply when the engine is required for safety, technical equipment or another necessary purpose.
Wikimedia.org • Spacekid • CC0
What is idling?
Idling means keeping a vehicle's engine running while the vehicle remains stationary and the engine is not being used to propel it.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 123, stationary engines; national guidance example
Why should unnecessary idling be avoided?
Unnecessary idling uses fuel, produces exhaust emissions and creates noise without moving the vehicle.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 123, stationary engines; national guidance example
Is idling illegal everywhere?
Check the local rule and circumstances. For example, Great Britain prohibits unnecessary idling on a public road but recognises situations such as waiting in traffic or diagnosing a fault. Do not assume that every stationary engine is prohibited or that one country’s exceptions apply elsewhere.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 123, stationary engines; national guidance example
110. Tow truck
A tow truck is a specialised vehicle used to recover, tow, lift or transport vehicles that are broken down, damaged, incorrectly parked or otherwise unable to continue their journey normally. Tow trucks may use lifting equipment, a winch, wheel-lift equipment or a loading platform.
Because vehicle recovery can take place beside moving traffic, tow trucks commonly use warning lights and other safety equipment while working. Drivers approaching a recovery operation should reduce speed where necessary, leave sufficient space and follow any temporary traffic control or instructions from authorised personnel.
Wikimedia.org • Stolbovsky • CC BY-SA
What is a tow truck?
A tow truck is a specialised vehicle designed to recover, tow, lift or transport vehicles that are disabled, damaged or otherwise need to be removed.
How can a tow truck move another vehicle?
Tow trucks may use a wheel lift, lifting arm, winch, towing equipment or loading platform. The recovery method depends on the type and condition of the vehicle being moved.
🔗 jerrdan.com • Jerr-Dan, recovery carriers and equipment
🔗 jerrdan.com • Jerr-Dan, recovery boom and wheel-lift wreckers
Do flashing lights give a tow truck emergency-vehicle priority?
Not necessarily. Warning lights used for vehicle recovery usually indicate a hazard rather than giving the tow truck the same legal priority as a police car, ambulance or fire vehicle.
111. Four-wheel drive
Four-wheel drive, commonly abbreviated as 4WD or 4x4, is a drivetrain system capable of transmitting power to all four wheels of a vehicle. This can provide additional traction on surfaces such as snow, mud, gravel, sand or uneven terrain.
Four-wheel-drive systems may operate permanently or be engaged automatically or manually when additional traction is required. Four-wheel drive can improve the vehicle's ability to move on slippery or difficult surfaces, but it does not remove the need for suitable tyres, safe speed and careful braking and steering.
Wikimedia.org • B101uk • CC BY-SA
What is four-wheel drive?
Four-wheel drive is a drivetrain system that can send power to all four wheels of a vehicle rather than only the front or rear wheels.
🔗 fordservicecontent.com • Ford, owner manual, using four-wheel drive
What does 4x4 mean?
4x4 normally indicates a vehicle with four wheels of which all four can be driven by the powertrain.
🔗 fordservicecontent.com • Ford, owner manual, using four-wheel drive
Does four-wheel drive shorten braking distance?
Not automatically. Ford’s driving guidance explains that four-wheel drive may improve acceleration on snow or ice without making the vehicle stop faster. Do not let extra traction encourage excessive speed; follow the vehicle’s instructions and allow for slippery conditions.
🔗 fordservicecontent.com • Ford, owner manual, using four-wheel drive
112. Bicycle
A bicycle is a vehicle with two or more wheels that is primarily propelled by the rider using pedals or hand cranks. Bicycles are used for transport, recreation, sport and the carriage of small loads or passengers when appropriately equipped.
Some bicycles have an electric motor that assists the rider while pedalling. Whether an electrically assisted bicycle remains legally classified as a bicycle depends on its motor power, assistance speed and local regulations. Cyclists must follow the traffic rules, signs, signals and road-use requirements that apply to bicycles.
Wikimedia.org • Datendelphin • CC0
What is a bicycle?
A bicycle is normally a two-wheeled pedal cycle. Traffic laws may use a broader cycle category that also includes hand-powered cycles, tricycles or certain electrically assisted models. Check the local classification when different rules depend on the vehicle type.
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, Riding an electric bike: the rules; GB EAPC example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 59–82, cycling; national guidance example
🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule
🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example
Must cyclists use a cycle path?
This depends on the country and type of cycle facility. Some cycle paths are compulsory, while others are optional.
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, Riding an electric bike: the rules; GB EAPC example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 59–82, cycling; national guidance example
🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule
🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example
Is a bicycle helmet compulsory?
This varies between countries. Some require helmets for all cyclists or particular age groups, while others recommend helmets without making them compulsory.
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, Riding an electric bike: the rules; GB EAPC example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 59–82, cycling; national guidance example
🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule
🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example
113. Motorcycle equipment
Motorcycle equipment includes the protective equipment used by the rider and passenger and the safety equipment fitted to the motorcycle. Rider equipment commonly includes a helmet, protective clothing, gloves, boots and eye protection, while the motorcycle itself requires equipment such as lights, brakes, mirrors, tyres and signalling devices according to local law.
The equipment that is legally required varies between countries and motorcycle categories. Riders should ensure that both their protective equipment and motorcycle are suitable, correctly used and in safe condition before travelling.
Wikimedia.org • 35mmMan • CC BY
What equipment should a motorcyclist use?
Motorcyclists should use appropriate protective equipment, commonly including a helmet, gloves, protective jacket and trousers, and footwear that protects the feet and ankles.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 59, cycle equipment; national guidance example
🔗 chp.ca.gov • California Highway Patrol, motorcycle safety and helmets; California example
Is a motorcycle helmet compulsory?
Helmet requirements depend on local law, although approved motorcycle helmets are compulsory in many countries. The helmet should fit correctly and be used in a way that preserves its protective function.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 59, cycle equipment; national guidance example
🔗 chp.ca.gov • California Highway Patrol, motorcycle safety and helmets; California example
Why should motorcyclists wear gloves?
Use suitable motorcycle gloves as part of your protective equipment. They can help protect the hands while allowing a secure grip and operation of the controls. Protection depends on the glove’s design, condition and fit; ordinary gloves are not automatically equivalent to protective riding gloves.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 59, cycle equipment; national guidance example
🔗 chp.ca.gov • California Highway Patrol, motorcycle safety and helmets; California example
114. Tram
A tram is a passenger vehicle that runs on rails, usually along streets or on dedicated tracks within an urban or suburban transport network. Tram tracks may be embedded in the roadway, separated from other traffic or combined with both types of infrastructure along the same route.
Because a tram is guided by rails and cannot steer around obstacles, other road users should take particular care near tram tracks, crossings and stops. Priority and interaction rules differ between countries.
Wikimedia.org • Mark Clifton • CC BY-SA
Do trams always have priority?
Not everywhere. Priority rules for trams vary between countries and can also depend on traffic lights, signs and the particular road layout.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 223, buses; national guidance example
115. Rail track
A rail track is a pair of rails used to guide trams, trains or other rail vehicles. Tracks may run alongside a road, cross it or be embedded directly in the carriageway so that rail vehicles and other road users travel through the same area.
Road users should take particular care around tracks because rail vehicles cannot steer around obstacles and require considerable distance to stop. Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians must follow the applicable priority rules, traffic lights, warning signs and crossing rules and must avoid unnecessarily obstructing the tracks.
Wikimedia.org • Fifo • CC BY-SA
What is a track?
A track consists of rails that guide trams, trains or other rail vehicles. Tracks may be separated from ordinary traffic or incorporated into a road.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 223, buses; national guidance example
Who has priority when a road crosses tram tracks?
The applicable priority rules vary between countries, but rail vehicles commonly receive special priority because they cannot leave their tracks. Always obey traffic lights, signs and local rules.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 223, buses; national guidance example
What should you do if traffic stops while you are crossing tracks?
Do not enter a track crossing unless there is enough space to clear it completely. Never deliberately stop where a tram or train could be blocked.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 223, buses; national guidance example
116. Caravan
A caravan is a towable trailer designed to provide temporary living accommodation while travelling or camping. It commonly contains sleeping space and may also include cooking, seating, storage, washing or toilet facilities.
When towing a caravan, drivers should make sure it is correctly coupled, safely loaded and within the permitted towing and weight limits. A caravan changes the vehicle combination's length, weight, handling and stopping distance.
Wikimedia.org • John Phelan • CC BY-SA
What should you check before towing a caravan?
Check that the caravan is properly coupled, correctly loaded and secured and that the towing vehicle, trailer and driver comply with the applicable weight, equipment and driving-licence requirements.
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, towing weight and width limits; GB example
117. Trailer
A trailer is a vehicle designed to be pulled by another vehicle rather than move under its own power. Trailers are used to transport goods, equipment, boats, caravans or other loads and can vary greatly in size and weight.
Drivers towing a trailer should make sure it is correctly coupled, properly loaded and suitable for the towing vehicle. The trailer can increase the combination's length, weight, stopping distance and space required for turning.
Wikimedia.org • Donald Trung • CC BY-SA
What should you check before towing a trailer?
Check that the trailer is properly coupled, correctly loaded and secured and that the towing vehicle, trailer and driver meet the applicable weight, equipment and licensing requirements.
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, towing weight and width limits; GB example
118. Tow hitch
A tow hitch, also called a trailer hitch or towing coupling, is a device fitted to a vehicle so that a trailer, caravan or other towable vehicle can be securely connected to it. Passenger cars commonly use a tow ball, while heavier vehicles may use other types of mechanical coupling.
The tow hitch and towing vehicle must be suitable for the trailer and the loads involved. Drivers must respect the vehicle's approved towing capacity, the coupling limits, trailer mass and any applicable driving-licence, braking and safety requirements.
Wikimedia.org • Tony Webster • CC BY
What is a tow hitch?
A tow hitch is a mechanical coupling fitted to a vehicle so that a trailer, caravan or other towable vehicle can be attached.
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, towing weight and width limits; GB example
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, trailers and towing equipment, breakaway/secondary coupling; GB example
What is the maximum load on a tow hitch?
The permitted load depends on the vehicle and coupling. The coupling normally has specified maximum towing and vertical-load ratings that must not be exceeded.
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, towing weight and width limits; GB example
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, trailers and towing equipment, breakaway/secondary coupling; GB example
Does a trailer need a secondary safety connection?
Depending on the trailer's braking system and local law, a safety cable, chain or breakaway system may be required in addition to the main coupling.
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, towing weight and width limits; GB example
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, trailers and towing equipment, breakaway/secondary coupling; GB example
119. Fire truck
A fire truck is an emergency vehicle used by the fire and rescue services to transport firefighters, firefighting equipment, rescue equipment or water to fires, collisions and other emergencies. Different types of fire trucks may be designed for firefighting, rescue operations, aerial access or other specialised tasks.
During an emergency response, a fire truck may use warning lights and a siren and may receive 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 • Whiskey5jda • CC BY-SA
What is a fire truck?
A fire truck is an emergency vehicle used by firefighters to respond to fires, collisions, rescues and other emergencies. It may carry firefighters, water, ladders and specialised rescue equipment.
🔗 bucksfire.gov.uk • Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue, standard fire engine equipment
🔗 cambsfire.gov.uk • Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue, fire-engine rescue equipment
What should you do when a fire truck approaches?
Make space safely for a fire truck responding to an emergency, following the local rules and lawful directions. Slow down or stop where necessary, but do not make a dangerous manoeuvre or assume that you may disregard a red light to clear its path.
Can a fire truck exceed the speed limit?
Many countries allow emergency vehicles to depart from certain speed restrictions while carrying out an urgent mission. Emergency drivers must nevertheless take appropriate precautions and comply with the applicable emergency-driving rules.
120. Siren
A siren is a loud warning device used to attract attention and warn people that an emergency or priority vehicle is approaching. Sirens are commonly fitted to vehicles such as ambulances, fire engines and police vehicles and may produce alternating or changing tones so they can be recognised quickly.
When an emergency vehicle approaches with its siren operating, road users should remain alert, identify where the vehicle is coming from and safely make room for it to pass. The exact priority rules and permitted use of sirens vary between countries.
Wikimedia.org • David R. Tribble • CC BY-SA
What should you do when you hear an emergency siren?
Stay alert, determine where the emergency vehicle is approaching from and make room for it to pass safely according to the traffic rules of the country.
121. Convoy
A convoy is a group of vehicles travelling together as an organised group, usually following the same route and destination. Convoys may consist of ordinary vehicles, military vehicles, exceptional transports or vehicles participating in an organised journey.
Drivers travelling in a convoy should maintain a safe distance, follow the applicable traffic rules and avoid obstructing other traffic. Being part of a convoy does not automatically give vehicles special priority unless specific laws, escorts or traffic-control measures apply.
Wikimedia.org • The U.S. Army • CC0
Should vehicles in a convoy maintain a safe distance?
Yes. Drivers should maintain sufficient distance from the vehicle ahead so they can react safely and so that other traffic can interact with the convoy where permitted.
122. Emergency vehicle lighting
Emergency vehicle lighting consists of special flashing or rotating lights used on authorised emergency or priority vehicles to make them highly visible and warn other road users. Police vehicles, ambulances, fire engines and other authorised response vehicles commonly use distinctive warning lights when responding to incidents.
The colour, meaning and permitted use of emergency lights vary between countries. When emergency lighting is active, road users should remain alert, identify the approaching vehicle and follow the local rules for giving way or creating a clear passage.
Wikimedia.org • BFV Radkersburg • CC BY-SA
What should you do when you see emergency lights?
Remain alert, determine where the emergency vehicle is coming from and follow the applicable rules for giving way or creating a safe passage. The precise obligation depends on the country's traffic laws and whether an audible warning is also being used.
123. Tractor
A tractor is a motor vehicle designed primarily to provide pulling power for agricultural, forestry or similar work. Tractors can tow trailers and machinery and may also carry or operate equipment used for tasks such as cultivating land, harvesting or maintaining forests.
Tractors often travel more slowly and are larger or wider than ordinary passenger vehicles, so other road users should allow sufficient space and take particular care when overtaking or meeting them on narrow roads.
Wikimedia.org • The Navigators • CC0
Why should drivers take care around tractors?
Tractors may be slow-moving, wide or accompanied by large machinery or trailers. Drivers should leave sufficient space and overtake only when there is enough visibility and room to do so safely.
124. Agricultural machinery
Agricultural machinery includes vehicles, machines and equipment designed for farming and agricultural work, such as cultivating soil, planting, harvesting, mowing, transporting crops or operating agricultural implements. Examples include tractors, combine harvesters, self-propelled sprayers, mowing machines and other specialised equipment.
Agricultural machinery may be designed mainly for use on fields but may also need to travel on public roads. When using public roads, the applicable registration, driving-licence, lighting, dimensions, speed and road-access rules depend on the type and legal classification of the machine.
Wikimedia.org • Bob Nichols • CC0
What is agricultural machinery?
Agricultural machinery includes vehicles and machines designed to perform farming operations such as cultivating, planting, harvesting, mowing or transporting agricultural materials.
What are examples of agricultural machinery?
Examples include tractors, combine harvesters, self-propelled sprayers, forage harvesters, mowing machines and agricultural trailers.
Do agricultural machines have special speed limits?
They may. The permitted speed can depend on the machine's construction speed, mass, tyres and road type. Many agricultural machines are designed to travel considerably more slowly than ordinary road vehicles.
125. Electric bicycle
An electric bicycle, or e-bike, is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor that assists the rider while travelling. Most electric bicycles use pedal assistance, meaning that the motor provides additional power while the rider pedals.
The legal classification of an electric bicycle depends on factors such as the motor power, maximum assistance speed and whether the motor can propel the bicycle without pedalling. Faster or more powerful electric bicycles may be classified as mopeds or another type of motor vehicle and can therefore be subject to different licence, helmet, registration and insurance requirements.
Wikimedia.org • Singlespeedfahrer • CC0
What is an electric bicycle?
An electric bicycle is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor that provides assistance to the rider.
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, Riding an electric bike: the rules; GB EAPC example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 59–82, cycling; national guidance example
🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule
🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example
Can you ride an electric bicycle faster than the assistance limit?
Yes, by your own effort where otherwise permitted. The assistance limit normally determines when the motor stops helping; it does not necessarily prevent the bicycle itself from travelling faster downhill or through pedalling.
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, Riding an electric bike: the rules; GB EAPC example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 59–82, cycling; national guidance example
🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule
🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example
Is a helmet compulsory on an electric bicycle?
Helmet requirements depend on the country and vehicle category. Ordinary e-bikes may follow normal bicycle helmet rules, while faster electric bicycles can have specific compulsory helmet requirements.
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, Riding an electric bike: the rules; GB EAPC example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 59–82, cycling; national guidance example
🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule
🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example