Traffic lightsWorldwide
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.
59. Traffic lights
Traffic lights use coloured lights, arrows or symbols to regulate when road users may proceed, must prepare to stop or must remain stopped. Separate signals may apply to particular directions, lanes, pedestrians, cyclists or public-transport vehicles.
A green light permits movement only when the route is clear and the movement is otherwise legal. Road users must still follow priority rules, turning restrictions, lane markings and instructions from authorised traffic controllers.
Wikimedia.org • Im Fokus • CC BY-SA
What are traffic lights?
Traffic lights are signals that use coloured lights, arrows or road-user symbols to regulate traffic movements.
🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals
Does green mean that you have priority over everyone?
No. You may still have to give way to pedestrians, cyclists, oncoming traffic or other road users when turning or following a conditional arrow.
🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals
What should you do when the normal lights are flashing amber?
Reduce speed, observe the intersection carefully and follow the applicable priority signs or default priority rules.
🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals
Can separate lights apply to cyclists?
Yes. A signal displaying a bicycle symbol applies to the road users legally covered by that signal rather than to general motor traffic.
🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals
Does a green light impose a minimum speed?
No. Drivers may proceed but must continue at a safe and legal speed.
🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals

Traffic rules
Worldwide