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Selective barriersWorldwide

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Worldwide. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.

Traffic signs
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Worldwide

55. Selective barriers

Selective barriers are physical access-control devices that allow certain road users or authorised vehicles to pass while restricting other traffic. They may include fixed, removable, folding or retractable bollards, gates, barriers and width-filtering installations.

The permitted users are determined by traffic signs, access conditions and local regulations, not by the barrier alone. Drivers should approach slowly, verify that they are authorised and wait until any moving barrier is fully open or retracted before continuing.

Height barrier of 3.3 metres and a width limit of 3.5 metres. (Untertor, Germany)
Wikimedia.org • EACC80 • CC BY
What is a selective barrier?

A selective barrier is a physical access-control device that blocks some traffic while allowing specified road users or authorised vehicles to pass.

🔗 manchester.gov.uk • Manchester City Council, using automatic bollards

May cyclists pass through a selective barrier?

Only when cycling is permitted and sufficient safe space is provided. Cyclists must follow the signs applying to the road or path.

🔗 content.tfl.gov.uk • Transport for London, access-control barriers and legal path status

🔗 gov.uk • UK Highway Code, permitted cycling and signs

What should you do when the barrier is moving?

Keep clear while a barrier is moving. Wait at a safe distance and follow the installation’s signals and instructions before passing. Moving gates can strike or trap people; do not try to squeeze through an opening or cross over a rising bollard.

🔗 hse.gov.uk • HSE, powered-gate risks

🔗 manchester.gov.uk • Manchester City Council, using automatic bollards

Does a selective barrier impose a speed limit?

Not by itself. Drivers must follow the applicable speed limit and approach slowly enough to stop before the installation.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 5–7 and 13; international framework subject to national law

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section C, access restrictions; sign-system reference

Does it change priority?

No. Traffic lights, priority signs and ordinary priority rules remain applicable unless another traffic arrangement indicates otherwise.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 5–7 and 13; international framework subject to national law

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section C, access restrictions; sign-system reference

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