Book

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