Book

1. National speed

National speed limits are the default maximum speeds set by law for different types of roads when no specific speed limit signs are present. They vary depending on the road type, vehicle category, and country, and drivers must know and apply them automatically.

• Speed must always be adapted to conditions (weather, traffic, visibility).
• Lower limits may apply for specific vehicles (e.g. trucks).

A sign indicating the general speed limits of Macedonia. © Wikimedia.org/Pudelek, CC BY-SA

2. Motorway

A motorway is a high-speed road designed for long-distance travel, with controlled access and no intersections or pedestrian traffic.

• High speed limits (often 100–130 km/h or 60–80 mph).
• Multiple lanes in each direction.
• No traffic lights or stop signs.
• No pedestrians, bicycles, or slow vehicles allowed.
• Entry and exit only through on-ramps and off-ramps.
• Often separated by a barrier or median.
• Different Names in Different Places:
  • Motorway – UK, Ireland, parts of Europe.
  • Freeway – USA (West Coast), Australia.
  • Expressway – Canada, some parts of Asia.
  • Interstate – USA (Interstate Highway System).
  • Autobahn – Germany (some sections have no speed limit).

Start of a motorway. (motorway A1, Geneva, Switzerland) © Wikimedia.org/Marc Mongenet, CC BY-SA

3. Expressway

An expressway is a high-speed road specifically engineered to handle large volumes of traffic safely and efficiently over longer distances, with controlled access that limits where vehicles can enter or leave the road. Unlike regular roads, an expressway has no direct intersections, traffic lights, or pedestrian crossings, allowing traffic to flow continuously without interruption. It typically features multiple lanes in each direction, separated by a median or physical barrier to prevent head-on collisions.

Expressway in Berlin, Germany. © Wikimedia.org/C.Suthorn, CC BY-SA

4. Residential area

A residential area is a part of a town or city where people live. It’s mostly made up of homes, apartments, and housing complexes, rather than businesses or factories. These areas are designed for safety and quiet living. Speeding or reckless driving here is especially dangerous and often carries higher penalties.

• Lower speed limits (often 20–40 km/h or 15–25 mph).
• Be alert for:
  • Kids running into the street.
  • People crossing the road.
  • Parked cars reducing visibility.

Residential area sign. (Dresden, Germany) © Wikimedia.org/Erfurth, CC BY-SA

5. Built-up area

A built-up area is a place where there are lots of buildings, people, and activity — basically, any area that looks and feels like a town or city.

• Lower speed limits usually apply (e.g. 30–50 km/h or 20–30 mph).
• You’ll see more pedestrians, cyclists, and parked cars.
• Need to be extra careful at crossings, junctions, and near schools.

Begin of a built-up area. (Uetliburg, municipality of Gommiswald, Switzerland) © Wikimedia.org/Dietrich Michael Weidmann, CC BY-SA

6. Zone

A zone refers to an area on the road where certain traffic laws or restrictions apply. Ignoring zone rules can lead to fines, points, or even accidents

• Speed Zone – has a specific speed limit.
• School Zone – reduced speed when near a school.
• Parking Zone – controls where and how long you can park.
• Residential Zone – lower speed, watch for children.
• Low Emission Zone – limits access for polluting vehicles.

Zone with speed limit 30 km/h. (Berlin-Tiergarten, Germany) © Wikimedia.org/Lukas Beck, CC BY-SA

7. Speed limit

A speed limit is the maximum speed you are legally allowed to drive on a road. It helps keep drivers, passengers, and pedestrians safe by reducing the risk of accidents. Always adjust your speed for weather, traffic, and road conditions — even if you're below the speed limit!

• Helps prevent accidents.
• Gives drivers more time to react.
• Keeps traffic flowing smoothly.
• Protects people in areas like school zones or construction sites.

Speed limit of 70 km/h. (Mahrenholz, Germany) © Wikimedia.org/Kirchenfan, CC0

8. Minimum speed

A minimum speed is the slowest speed you're legally allowed to drive on certain roads — especially highways or expressways. Driving Below the Minimum Speed Can be dangerous, especially if cars behind you are moving much faster. It may result in a ticket or fine unless you have a valid reason (like bad weather or mechanical issues).

• Keep traffic flowing smoothly.
• Prevent slow drivers from causing traffic jams or accidents.
• Make sure vehicles don’t block faster-moving traffic.
• Not all roads have minimum speed limits.
• In poor conditions (rain, fog, snow), you should always slow down—even below the minimum—if it's safer to do so.

Minimum speed of 50 km/h on the left. Pedestrians and cyclists prohibited. (canton of Valais, Switzerland) © Wikimedia.org/Marc Mongenet, CC BY-SA

9. Advisory speed

An advisory speed is a recommended safe speed, not a legal limit. An advisory speed tells drivers what speed is safe to drive in special conditions, like: sharp curves, steep hills, exit ramps, construction zones, slippery roads. It's meant to warn you, not enforce a law.

• Not legally required, but strongly recommended.
• Driving faster than the advisory speed can be dangerous.
• Ignoring it can still lead to accidents or charges (like reckless driving).

Advisory speed of 30 km/h. (Haute-Savoie, France) © Wikimedia.org/Marc Mongenet, CC BY-SA

10. Footpath

A footpath (or sidewalk) is a designated path for pedestrians, usually alongside a road. Traffic rules for footpaths ensure the safety of pedestrians and maintain order in urban areas.

• No driving or parking on footpaths – Vehicles are not allowed to obstruct pedestrian paths.
• No riding bicycles or motorcycles (unless marked as a shared path).
• Give way to pedestrians at crossings – Always stop or slow down near footpath exits.
• Use the footpath only for walking – Do not walk on the road unless necessary.
• Keep to the left/right (depending on local rules) to allow smooth pedestrian flow.
• Do not block the path – Avoid standing in groups that obstruct others.

A path for pedestrians. (Geneva, Switzerland) © Wikimedia.org/Marc Mongenet, CC BY-SA

11. Bike path

A bike path (also called a cycling path or bike lane) is a designated pathway for bicycles, separate from motor vehicle traffic. It provides a safe and dedicated space for cyclists, reducing the risk of accidents with cars and pedestrians. Bike paths promote safe, eco-friendly transport and reduce traffic congestion!

• Rules for cyclists:
  • Ride in the correct direction (following traffic flow).
  • Yield to pedestrians on shared paths.
  • Follow traffic signals and signs.
  • No reckless riding (e.g., speeding, sudden turns).
• Rules for pedestrians:
  • Stay off dedicated bike lanes unless marked as a shared path.
  • Cross bike lanes carefully at intersections.
• Rules for motorists:
  • Do not park or drive in bike lanes.
  • Yield to cyclists at crossings.

Path for cyclists. (Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France) © Wikimedia.org/Tabl-trai, CC BY-SA

12. Shared-use path

A shared-use path, mixed-use path or multi-use pathway is a path which is 'designed to accommodate the movement of pedestrians and cyclists'. Examples of shared-use paths include sidewalks designated as shared-use, bridleways and rail trails. A shared-use path typically has a surface that is asphalt, concrete or firmly packed crushed aggregate. Shared-use paths differ from cycle tracks and cycle paths in that shared-use paths are designed to include pedestrians even if the primary anticipated users are cyclists.

• Physically separated from roads (unlike bike lanes).
• Wide enough to accommodate multiple users safely.
• Marked with signs & pavement symbols to guide different users.
• Smooth surfaces for easy mobility (asphalt, concrete, or packed gravel).
• Used for recreation & transportation in parks, greenways, and urban areas.
• Cyclists give way to pedestrians and announce when passing.
• No blocking the path – Keep moving or step aside.

Shared-use path for pedestrians and cyclists. (Michałowice, Poland) © Wikimedia.org/U.G.Michałowice, CC BY-SA

13. Seperated path

A separated path (or segregated path) refers to a dedicated route physically separated from other types of traffic, typically designed to improve safety and comfort for specific road users like pedestrians or cyclists.

• Divided into distinct sections for different users.
• Separation can be physical (curb, barrier) or visual (line, markings).
• Clearly marked with symbols (e.g. pedestrian / bicycle).
• Each user must use their designated section only.
• Adapt speed to shared environments (especially near crossings).

© Wikimedia.org/Kamil Czaiński, CC BY-SA

14. Pedestrian warning

A pedestrian Warning is a traffic sign or signal that alerts drivers to the presence of pedestrians in an area. These warnings help improve road safety by making sure drivers slow down, yield, or stop when necessary to prevent accidents.

• Reduces accidents by making drivers more aware.
• Encourages safe pedestrian crossings in busy areas.
• Improves traffic flow by clearly marking pedestrian zones.

Pedestrian warning sign. (Langeleben, Germany) © Wikimedia.org/Friedi13, CC BY-SA

15. Tunnel

Tunnels are enclosed roadways with special traffic rules to ensure safety, visibility, and smooth traffic flow. Due to the risk of accidents, fires, and poor ventilation, strict regulations apply. Tunnels are high-risk areas! Stay alert, follow all traffic rules, and be prepared for emergencies.

• Turn on headlights – Low-beam headlights are required for visibility.
• Follow speed limits – Tunnels have lower speed limits to prevent collisions.
• Keep a safe distance – Maintain at least 2-3 seconds of space from the vehicle ahead.
• Stay in your lane – Avoid lane changes unless necessary.
• Obey traffic signs and signals – Some tunnels use electronic signs for safety updates.
• No stopping or parking – Stopping inside a tunnel is dangerous unless in an emergency.
• Check if large trucks or hazardous materials are allowed – Some tunnels restrict certain vehicles.
• Follow height and weight restrictions – Exceeding limits can damage the tunnel or cause accidents.
• No walking or cycling inside tunnels – Unless there is a separate pedestrian or bike lane.

Scenario with two burning trucks in the training tunnel facility of the International Fire Academy in Lungern is based on the fire in the Gotthard road tunnel on 24 October 2001. © Wikimedia.org/Markus Vogt, CC BY-SA

16. Bridge

Bridges are critical and sensitive road structures, so specific traffic rules are enforced to ensure safety, stability, and smooth traffic flow. Bridges have limited space, structural limits, and unique risks (wind, congestion, accidents). Following these rules keeps everyone safe and prevents damage to the bridge.

• Obey Speed Limits - Speed is often lower on bridges due to narrow lanes, curves, or structural limits.
• No Overtaking - Do not overtake or change lanes while on a bridge unless explicitly allowed.
• No Stopping or Parking - Stopping, standing, or parking on a bridge is strictly prohibited, except in emergencies.
• Obey Weight Limits - Heavy vehicles must follow maximum weight restrictions to prevent damage to the bridge structure.
• Use Designated Lane - Follow lane markings. Some bridges may have special lanes for bicycles, pedestrians, or emergency vehicles.
• No U-Turns or Reversing - U-turns and reversing on a bridge are usually not allowed and can cause accidents.
• Watch for Crosswinds - Pay attention to wind warning signs on high or open bridges.
• Follow Traffic Signals & Barriers - At railway or movable bridges (drawbridges), stop when barriers are down or signals are red.

Warning for a movable bridge. Warning for a priority junction. (Mung, France) © Wikimedia.org/KiwiNeko14, CC BY-SA

17. Cyclist street

A bicycle street is a street in which the cyclists are the most important road users. Motor vehicles are allowed, but cars are not allowed to overtake cyclists. Usually found in residential or urban areas to encourage safe biking.

• Bikes have priority - Cyclists can use the full lane.
• Cars are guests - Drivers must stay behind cyclists unless it's safe to pass.
• Speed is limited - Usually max 30 km/h (20 mph) or lower.
• No honking or aggressive driving - Cars must respect cyclists’ space.
• Cyclists can ride side by side - Not required to move over for cars.
• Signs with text like "Bicycle Street" or local versions like:
  • “Fahrradstraße” (Germany).
  • “Rue Cyclable” (France).
  • “Fietsstraat” (Netherlands).

Sign indicating a cyclist street. (Netherlands) © Wikimedia.org/Ben.manibog, CC BY-SA

18. Pedestrian zone

A pedestrian zone is an area where only people on foot are allowed — no cars, motorcycles, or other vehicles (unless specifically permitted, like for deliveries at certain times). It’s a space in a city or town meant to be safe and comfortable for walking, shopping, or relaxing — with no regular vehicle traffic.

• No entry for cars or motorcycles.
• Cyclists may be allowed, depending on local rules (often at walking speed).
• Sometimes delivery vehicles are allowed during specific hours.
• Often found in: city centers, shopping streets, tourist areas and near schools or parks.

Pedestrian zone. (Ticino, Switzerland) © Wikimedia.org/Marc Mongenet, CC BY-SA

19. Speed bump

A speed bump is a traffic calming device that use vertical deflection to slow motor-vehicle traffic in order to improve safety conditions. Variations include the speed hump, speed cushion and speed table. These designs all help keep speeds safe and roads friendly for people, especially in busy or residential areas.

• Slow down to about 10–20 km/h (5–15 mph).
• Going too fast can damage your car or feel very uncomfortable.

Warning for a speed bump. (Haute-Savoie, France) © Wikimedia.org/Marc Mongenet, CC BY-SA

20. Toll road

A toll Road is a road, bridge, or tunnel where drivers must pay a fee (toll) to use it. The toll helps cover the cost of construction, maintenance, and operation of the road.

• How to Pay a Toll:
  • Cash Payment – Pay at a toll booth.
  • Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) – RFID tags or transponders (e.g., EZ-Pass, FasTrak, SunPass).
  • License Plate Billing – Automatic charge via plate recognition.
  • Credit/Debit Card Payment – Available at some toll booths.
• Examples of Toll Roads:
  • Autobahn (Germany) – Some sections require tolls for trucks.
  • M6 Toll (UK) – A faster alternative to the M6 motorway.
  • Golden Gate Bridge (USA) – Charges a toll for crossing.
  • Mumbai-Pune Expressway (India) – A major tolled highway.

Toll road. (Nangy, France) © Wikimedia.org/Marc Mongenet, CC BY-SA

21. Customs

Road customs (or border customs checkpoints) are official inspection points where vehicles, goods, and passengers cross international borders. Customs officers check documents, collect taxes/duties, and enforce laws to regulate trade and security.

• Stop at the customs station when crossing a border.
• Show documents (passport, vehicle registration, import/export papers).
• Declare goods (items brought across the border).
• Inspection – Officers may check vehicles and goods for illegal or restricted items.
• Pay customs duties/taxes (if required).
• Get clearance and continue your journey.
• Common Customs Checks:
  • Vehicle Documents – Registration, insurance, and permits.
  • Personal Documents – Passport, visa, driver’s license.
  • Goods & Cargo – Items must be declared and checked.
  • Illegal Substances – Drugs, weapons, or restricted goods are confiscated.

Douane checkpoint. (Haute-Savoie, France) © Wikimedia.org/Marc Mongenet, CC BY-SA

22. One-way traffic

One-way traffic is traffic that moves in a single direction. A one-way street is a street either facilitating only one-way traffic, or designed to direct vehicles to move in one direction. One-way streets typically result in higher traffic flow as drivers may avoid encountering oncoming traffic or turns through oncoming traffic.

• Directional Flow - Vehicles can only travel in a single direction.
• Road Signs and Markings - One-way signs (usually with an arrow) are posted to indicate the direction of traffic flow.
• Traffic Regulations - Drivers must follow the direction indicated and are prohibited from driving against the flow of traffic.
• Intersection Rules - At intersections, traffic signals or signs will also indicate whether you can enter a one-way street from another direction.
• Parking - Be aware of one-way parking rules on these roads, as parking may only be allowed in certain directions.
• No U-turns - U-turns are usually prohibited on one-way streets.
• Be Cautious at Intersections - Ensure you don’t mistakenly enter a one-way street from the wrong direction.

One-way traffic sign. (Mülheim an der Ruhr, Germany) © Wikimedia.org/Frank Vincentz, CC BY-SA

23. Quay

A quay warning is a sign used near quays or docking areas to warn people of potential hazards related to the waterfront, docking operations, or ship movements. These signs are typically placed to ensure the safety of pedestrians, workers, and vessels around the quay area.

• Safety Alerts - They inform individuals about specific risks, such as slippery surfaces, moving ships, or high tides.
• Hazard Identification - Some signs may alert people to low visibility conditions, fast currents, or unprotected edges.
• Visibility - Provides clear and visible alerts to make individuals aware of hazards around the quay, docks, or waterfront.

Warning for a quay. Warning for a steep descent of 20%. (Cenon-sur-Vienne, France) © Wikimedia.org/Lionel Allorge, CC BY-SA

24. Slope

A slope refers to the incline or decline of a surface, such as a road, hill, or pathway. It shows the steepness of the ground. Driving on slopes requires special attention to ensure safety for both the vehicle and the driver. Here’s how to handle uphill and downhill driving:

• Driving Uphill (Incline):
  • Shift to a Lower Gear - If driving a manual vehicle, shift to a lower gear (e.g., 2nd or 3rd gear) to ensure the car has enough power to move up.
  • Maintain Steady Speed - Keep a consistent speed. Don’t over-rev the engine, but don’t let the vehicle slow down too much.
• Driving Downhill (Decline):
  • Use Lower Gears - Always use a lower gear when driving downhill (in manual transmission vehicles) to reduce speed. This lets the engine help slow the vehicle, rather than relying entirely on the brakes.
  • Avoid Excessive Braking - If you brake too hard or too often while going downhill, the brakes can overheat, leading to brake failure. Use engine braking to slow down instead.

Warning for a steep descent of 6% for 2 km. (Savoie, France) © Wikimedia.org/Marc Mongenet, CC BY-SA

25. Bus lane

A bus lane is a designated lane on a road or street that is reserved specifically for buses. These lanes allow buses to travel more efficiently and avoid traffic congestion, helping them maintain schedules and provide faster public transport services. They are often located near bus stops to allow buses to pick up passengers without delaying traffic.

• Exclusively for Buses - Bus lanes are typically marked with signs and road markings that indicate they are meant for buses only.
• Reduces Traffic Congestion - By providing a dedicated lane for buses, these lanes help ensure that buses can avoid getting stuck in regular traffic.
• Can Be Shared - In some cases, bus lanes may be shared with other types of vehicles during certain times (like taxis, bicycles, or private cars during off-peak hours), but they are mostly reserved for buses during peak times.
• Clearly Marked - Bus lanes are often marked with special signs or road paint that indicate their purpose and hours of operation.

Lane for buses. (Haute-Savoie, France) © Wikimedia.org/Marc Mongenet, CC BY-SA

26. Bus stop

A bus stop is a designated location along a bus route where passengers can board or alight (get off) a bus. It is a stationary point marked by signs or shelters, typically located at intervals along the route, where people wait to catch the bus.

• Signage - Bus stops are usually marked by signposts with the bus company’s logo, route number, and the name of the stop.
• Shelter - Some bus stops have shelters or benches to provide passengers with comfort and protection from the weather while they wait.
• Timetable Information - Many bus stops have timelines or information boards displaying bus schedules, routes, and other relevant information.
• Accessibility - Bus stops are often designed to be accessible for people with disabilities, featuring low platforms or ramps for easy boarding.

A bus stop. (Baksa, Hungary) © Wikimedia.org/Györkő Zsombor, CC BY-SA

27. Dead end

A dead end (also known as a cul-de-sac) is a street or road that has no exit or outlet at the end. It is a one-way road that leads to a closed area or a turn-around point, meaning vehicles cannot continue in the same direction and must turn around to exit.

• No Through Traffic - Dead-end streets do not allow traffic to pass through to another road. The road ends at a point or a circular area where vehicles must turn back.
• Turnaround Area - Many dead ends feature a cul-de-sac or turning circle, providing a space for vehicles to turn around easily.
• Typically Residential - Dead ends are often found in residential neighborhoods, offering a quieter environment without through traffic.
• Street Signage - A dead-end sign is often placed at the start of such streets to warn drivers that the road will not lead anywhere further.

A dead end street. (Dravlje District, Slovenia) © Wikimedia.org/Kasius Klej, CC BY

28. Stop sign

A stop sign is a traffic control sign that instructs drivers to come to a complete stop at an intersection or crosswalk, check for other vehicles or pedestrians, and proceed only when it is safe.

• Shape - The stop sign is an octagon (eight-sided), making it easy to recognize.
• Color - It is usually red with white lettering that says 'STOP'.
• Placement - Stop signs are typically placed at intersections where traffic from different directions must yield or stop to avoid collisions.
• Stop completely – Don’t just slow down; make a full stop.
• Yield the right of way – Give priority to any vehicles or pedestrians with the right of way.
• Look left, right, and left again – Ensure it’s safe to proceed.
• Do not block the intersection – After stopping, ensure you don’t obstruct other vehicles from crossing.

Stop sign at a railroad crossing. (Georgia, United States) © Wikimedia.org/Michael Rivera, CC BY-SA

29. Give way

"Give Way" means you must slow down or stop to let other road users go first before you proceed. It’s the same as “Yield” in some countries (like the U.S.). A Give Way Sign Looks Like: An inverted triangle. Usually red and white, with the words "Give Way" or "Yield"

• Slow down as you approach.
• Check for traffic from other directions.
• Let other vehicles or pedestrians go first if they have priority.
• Proceed only when it’s safe.

A give way sign at a roundabout. (Isère, France) © Wikimedia.org/Marc Mongenet, CC BY-SA

30. Roundabout

A roundabout is a circular intersection where traffic flows in one direction around a central island. Instead of traffic lights or stop signs, vehicles use yield rules to enter and exit the roundabout safely.

• Approach slowly.
• Yield to traffic already inside the roundabout.
• Enter when it’s safe.
• Signal before exiting at your desired turn-off.

Warning for a roundabout. (Saint-Yorre, France) © Wikimedia.org/Tabl-trai, CC BY-SA

31. Priority road

A priority road is a road on which drivers have right of way at intersections, meaning they are allowed to continue without yielding to traffic coming from side roads. This priority applies at each intersection along the road until it is explicitly ended by an end of priority road sign.

• You may proceed without yielding to traffic from non-priority roads.
• Still be cautious: other drivers may fail to yield.
• Priority does not override all rules (e.g. traffic lights, police instructions).

Priority road. (Geneva, Switzerland) © Wikimedia.org/Marc Mongenet, CC BY-SA

32. Road narrowing

A road narrowing sign is a traffic sign that alerts drivers that the road ahead becomes narrower, either on one side or on both sides. This change can make passing more difficult and may require drivers to slow down, adjust their position on the road, or be prepared to yield in tight situations. Its purpose is to warn drivers early so they can approach the narrowing safely and avoid conflicts with oncoming traffic.

• The available road width will decrease ahead.
• Reduce speed and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.
• Extra caution is needed, especially on narrow roads or in traffic.

Entry of village Saint-André with a road narrowing warning. (Savoie, France) © Wikimedia.org/Florian Pépellin, CC BY-SA

33. Priority over oncoming traffic

Priority over oncoming traffic means that you have the right of way when the road narrows or when two directions cannot pass at the same time. Oncoming vehicles must wait until you have passed. This sign ensures safe and orderly movement in tight or restricted sections by clearly showing which direction may proceed first.

• Common locations: one-lane roadworks, narrow bridges, chicanes or pinch points.

Road narrowing where oncoming traffic has to give way. (Holzbrücke, Switzerland) © Wikimedia.org/Xocolatl, CC BY-SA

34. Give way to oncoming traffic

Give way to oncoming traffic means that you must yield when the road narrows or when two directions cannot pass simultaneously. You must wait and allow the vehicles coming from the opposite direction to go first. This sign helps prevent conflicts in tight sections by clearly showing which direction must give priority.

• Common locations: one-lane roadworks, narrow bridges, chicanes or pinch points.

Give way to oncoming vehicles. (Geneva, Switzerland) © Wikimedia.org/Marc Mongenet, CC BY-SA

35. Pedestrian crossing

A pedestrian crossing is a designated area on the road where pedestrians can safely cross from one side to the other. It is marked by road markings, signs, and sometimes traffic lights to give priority to pedestrians.

• Road Markings - Typically, pedestrian crossings are marked with zebra stripes (black and white), which are visible on the road.
• Traffic Signs - There may be a pedestrian crossing sign (usually a blue or triangular sign) indicating where pedestrians can cross.
• Traffic Signals - In some locations, pedestrian crossings are controlled by traffic lights, which help manage when pedestrians can cross safely.
• Location - Pedestrian crossings are often found at intersections, near schools, parks, bus stops, or other areas with high foot traffic.

Pedestrian crossing. (Berlin, Germany) © Wikimedia.org/Geoprofi Lars, CC BY-SA

36. Railroad crossing

A railroad crossing (also called a level crossing) is a place where a railway line and a road (or path) cross at the same level — meaning, there’s no bridge or tunnel, just a flat intersection.

• Stop when lights flash or gates come down.
• Never try to 'beat the train' — it's dangerous and often illegal.
• Look both ways, even if you don’t hear or see a train.
• Wait until gates are fully up and lights stop flashing before crossing.
• Never stop on the tracks — always make sure there’s room on the other side before crossing.

Warning for a railroad crossing in 30 meter. (Chemnitz-Einsiedel, Germany) © Wikimedia.org/Kleeblatt187, CC BY-SA

37. Mandatory direction

A mandatory direction is a traffic rule or sign that tells drivers they must follow a specific direction — such as turning left, going straight, or following a designated route.

• Usually blue circular signs with a white arrow or symbol.
• The arrow shows the only allowed direction at that point.
• Prevent dangerous turns or wrong-way driving.
• Used at intersections, roundabouts, construction zones, or restricted areas.

Mandatory right turn except for cyclists. (Wuppertal-Elberfeld, Germany) © Wikimedia.org/Atamari, CC BY-SA

38. Turn prohibition

A turn prohibition is a traffic rule or sign that forbids drivers from making certain turns at a specific location, usually for safety or traffic flow reasons. These are usually marked by clearly posted signs, and ignoring them can lead to traffic tickets or fines.

• At busy intersections to prevent traffic jams.
• Near schools or pedestrian-heavy areas for safety.
• On one-way streets.
• On roads with limited visibility or high-speed traffic.

Turning left prohibited for vehicles above 6 ton. (Haute-Savoie, France) © Wikimedia.org/Marc Mongenet, CC BY-SA

39. School-area

A school area (or school zone) is a section of road near a school where special traffic rules apply to keep students safe. Children can be unpredictable and may cross suddenly. Following the rules helps protect lives and avoid fines.

• Lower speed limits - Often 20–40 km/h (or 15–25 mph).
• Flashing lights or signs - Indicate when the school zone is active.
• Crosswalks - Marked pedestrian areas, sometimes with guards.
• No parking/stopping zones - Keep areas clear for visibility and safety.
• Speed bumps or raised crossings - Force drivers to slow down.

Warning for children. (Lyon, France) © Wikimedia.org/Sebleouf, CC BY-SA

40. Overtaking

Overtaking is the action of passing another vehicle that is moving more slowly, so you can move ahead of it on the road. Overtaking is a very dangerous maneuver. Only overtake if there is enough space and if the road is completely free. When overtaking a pedestrian, cyclist or moped, there must be at least 1 meter distance. Overtaking is prohibited at crossroads, slopes, dangerous curves and crossings.

• Check your mirrors and blind spots.
• Signal your intention to overtake (usually to the right in right-hand traffic, or left in left-hand traffic).
• Move into the passing lane, speed up safely.
• Once ahead, signal again and return to your lane when clear.

No overtaking and speed limit of 50 km/h. (Büstedt, Germany) © Wikimedia.org/Kirchenfan, CC0