Traffic signsWorldwide
Traffic rules
Worldwide
301. Manual transmission
A manual transmission is a vehicle transmission in which the driver selects the gears manually, usually using a gear lever together with a clutch pedal. The driver operates the clutch to disconnect and reconnect the engine from the transmission when starting, stopping or changing gears.
Driving a manual vehicle requires the driver to coordinate the clutch, accelerator and gear selection. Compared with an automatic transmission, gear changes are controlled directly by the driver rather than being performed automatically by the vehicle.
Wikimedia.org • 21C117 • CC BY-SA
What is the difference between a manual and automatic transmission?
With a manual transmission, the driver selects and changes gears. An automatic transmission normally selects the appropriate gears automatically without requiring a conventional clutch pedal.
302. Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission is a vehicle transmission that changes gears automatically without requiring the driver to operate a conventional clutch pedal and manually select each gear. Depending on the design, the driver normally selects positions such as park, reverse, neutral and drive while the transmission manages gear changes.
An automatic transmission can make driving simpler by removing the need to coordinate a clutch pedal and manual gear changes. Automatic transmissions include several different technologies, such as conventional automatics, continuously variable transmissions and dual-clutch systems.
Wikimedia.org • Jhcbs1019 • CC BY-SA
Do all automatic transmissions work in the same way?
No. Automatic transmission controls, operating modes and procedures differ between vehicles. Read the handbook for selecting drive, parking, hill driving and breakdown towing rather than assuming that a familiar selector or procedure works in every model.
303. Throttle
A throttle is a control used to regulate the power produced by an engine or motor. In most cars and trucks, the driver controls the throttle through the accelerator pedal, while motorcycles commonly use a twist grip on the handlebar.
Increasing the throttle generally increases the power available for acceleration, while reducing it decreases the power delivered to the wheels. The exact system differs between combustion-engine, hybrid and electric vehicles.
Wikimedia.org • Santeri Viinamäki • CC BY-SA
Is the throttle the same as the accelerator?
They are closely related. The accelerator is the driver’s control. In a combustion-engine vehicle, it commands the throttle system that regulates engine output; electronic systems can transmit that command through a computer rather than a mechanical linkage.
304. Tachometer
A tachometer is an instrument that shows the rotational speed of an engine or motor, usually measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). It is commonly displayed on the vehicle's instrument panel near the speedometer.
A tachometer helps the driver understand how fast the engine is rotating and can assist with selecting an appropriate gear in vehicles with a manual transmission. It measures engine speed rather than the vehicle's road speed.
Wikimedia.org • メルビル • CC BY-SA
Is a tachometer the same as a speedometer?
No. A tachometer shows engine rotational speed, while a speedometer shows the vehicle's road speed.
305. Steering wheel
A steering wheel is the primary control used by a driver to change the direction of a vehicle. Turning the steering wheel operates the steering system, which changes the angle of the steered wheels and directs the vehicle along the intended path.
The driver should use the steering wheel smoothly and remain in full control of the vehicle. Modern steering systems may include power assistance, electronic controls and buttons for functions such as audio, cruise control or driver information.
Wikimedia.org • Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz • CC BY-SA
Should you make sudden steering movements?
Normally, no. Steering should be smooth and controlled because sudden movements can destabilise the vehicle or create danger for other road users.
🔗 hella.com • HELLA, hydraulic steering pump function and failure effects
306. Power steering
Power steering is a steering system that assists the driver in turning the vehicle's wheels, reducing the physical effort required at the steering wheel. The assistance may be provided hydraulically, electrically or by a combination of systems.
Power steering makes vehicles easier to manoeuvre, particularly at low speeds and while parking. The amount of assistance may vary with vehicle speed so that steering remains stable and responsive during faster driving.
Wikimedia.org • Samf4u • CC BY-SA
What happens if power steering fails?
Steering may become considerably heavier or a warning may appear. The driver should maintain control, reduce speed safely and have the steering system checked as soon as possible.
🔗 hella.com • HELLA, hydraulic steering pump function and failure effects
307. Visual scanning
Visual scanning is the driving technique of continuously observing the road ahead, mirrors, side areas and surrounding traffic to identify hazards and changing traffic situations as early as possible. Effective scanning means moving attention regularly between different parts of the traffic environment rather than concentrating on a single point.
Drivers should look well ahead, check mirrors regularly and observe relevant side areas and blind spots, particularly before changing speed, direction or road position.
Wikimedia.org • B137 • CC BY-SA
Why is scanning important?
Scanning helps drivers identify hazards earlier and gives them more time to adjust speed, position or direction safely.
308. Mirror
A mirror is a device fitted to a vehicle that allows the driver to observe traffic behind and beside the vehicle without turning away from the road ahead for an extended period. Vehicles commonly use an interior rear-view mirror and one or more exterior side mirrors.
Mirrors help drivers monitor surrounding traffic before changing direction, changing lane, overtaking, merging or slowing down. Because mirrors cannot show every area around a vehicle, drivers should also check their blind spots by direct observation where necessary before manoeuvring.
Wikimedia.org • Petar Milošević • CC BY-SA
What is a vehicle mirror?
A vehicle mirror allows the driver to observe traffic and other road users behind or beside the vehicle.
What is the difference between an interior and exterior mirror?
An interior rear-view mirror normally provides a view through the rear window, while exterior side mirrors provide views along the sides and towards the rear of the vehicle.
Can a damaged mirror affect road safety?
Yes. A cracked, loose, missing or badly adjusted mirror can reduce the driver's view of surrounding traffic and should be repaired or replaced when necessary.
309. Two-second rule
The two-second rule is a simple method for estimating a safe following distance behind another vehicle. The driver chooses a fixed point beside the road and begins counting when the vehicle ahead passes that point. Their own vehicle should reach the same point at least two seconds later.
The two-second interval should be increased when road, weather or visibility conditions are poor, because rain, snow, ice or reduced grip can significantly increase the distance needed to stop.
Wikimedia.org • Marc Mongenet • CC BY-SA
Is two seconds always enough?
No. A greater following interval should be used when conditions such as rain, snow, ice, poor visibility or reduced tyre grip increase stopping distance.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, wet/icy visibility; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, tyres and brakes; national guidance example
310. Stopping distance
Stopping distance is the total distance a vehicle travels from the moment a driver notices a reason to stop until the vehicle comes to a complete stop. It consists of the reaction distance and the braking distance.
Stopping distance increases with speed and can become much longer when the road is wet, icy or slippery, when tyres or brakes are in poor condition, or when the driver's reaction is delayed.
Wikimedia.org • Tabl-trai • CC BY-SA
What can increase stopping distance?
Stopping distance can increase because of higher speed, wet or icy roads, worn tyres, poor brakes, downhill gradients, heavy loads and delayed driver reactions caused by fatigue, distraction, alcohol or other impairments.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, wet/icy visibility; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, tyres and brakes; national guidance example
311. Braking distance
Braking distance is the distance a vehicle travels from the moment the brakes are applied until the vehicle comes to a complete stop. It is one part of the total stopping distance; the other part is the reaction distance.
Braking distance increases rapidly as speed increases. It is also affected by the road surface, tyres, brakes, vehicle load and gradient. Wet, icy or otherwise slippery roads can significantly increase the distance needed to stop.
Wikimedia.org • Karin Beate Nøsterud • CC BY
What can increase braking distance?
Braking distance can increase because of wet, icy or loose road surfaces, worn tyres, poor brakes, heavy loads and downhill gradients. Drivers should reduce their speed and leave more space when conditions reduce braking performance.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237, wet/icy visibility; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, tyres and brakes; national guidance example
312. Fuel
Fuel is a source of energy used to power a vehicle's engine. Common vehicle fuels include petrol, diesel, LPG, CNG and alternative fuels. Electric vehicles use electricity rather than conventional liquid or gaseous fuel.
Drivers should always use a fuel that is compatible with their vehicle. Using the wrong fuel can damage the engine or fuel system, while economical driving and proper vehicle maintenance can reduce fuel consumption.
Wikimedia.org • Santeri Viinamäki • CC BY-SA
Which fuels are commonly used in road vehicles?
Common road-vehicle fuels include petrol, diesel, LPG, CNG and compatible alternative fuels. Battery-electric vehicles store electricity in a traction battery; other electric-drive designs, such as fuel-cell vehicles, obtain their propulsion energy differently.
🔗 energy.gov • US Department of Energy, Internal Combustion Engine Basics
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, BEV components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, fuel-cell electric components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, hybrid components
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, E10 petrol explained; GB fuel-compatibility example
How can a driver reduce fuel consumption?
Smooth acceleration, anticipating traffic, maintaining an appropriate speed, correct tyre pressure, avoiding unnecessary loads and keeping the vehicle properly maintained can help reduce fuel consumption.
🔗 energy.gov • US Department of Energy, Internal Combustion Engine Basics
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, BEV components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, fuel-cell electric components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, hybrid components
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, E10 petrol explained; GB fuel-compatibility example
313. Fuel economy
Fuel economy describes how efficiently a vehicle uses fuel to travel a certain distance. It is commonly expressed as fuel consumption, such as litres per 100 kilometres (L/100 km), or as distance travelled per unit of fuel, such as miles per gallon (mpg).
Fuel economy is affected by driving style, speed, traffic, vehicle weight, tyre pressure, aerodynamics, road conditions and maintenance. Smooth driving and anticipating traffic can reduce fuel consumption.
Wikimedia.org • Axel Schwenke • CC BY-SA
What does good fuel economy mean?
Good fuel economy means that a vehicle uses relatively little fuel for the distance travelled. When consumption is expressed in litres per 100 kilometres, a lower number generally indicates better fuel economy.
🔗 energy.gov • US Department of Energy, Internal Combustion Engine Basics
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, BEV components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, fuel-cell electric components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, hybrid components
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, E10 petrol explained; GB fuel-compatibility example
What vehicle factors affect fuel economy?
Fuel economy can be affected by tyre pressure, vehicle weight, roof racks, mechanical condition, air conditioning and other electrical loads. Proper maintenance and removing unnecessary loads can improve efficiency.
🔗 energy.gov • US Department of Energy, Internal Combustion Engine Basics
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, BEV components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, fuel-cell electric components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, hybrid components
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, E10 petrol explained; GB fuel-compatibility example
314. Fuel gauge
A fuel gauge is an instrument on a vehicle's dashboard that indicates approximately how much fuel remains in the fuel tank. It usually displays a scale from empty to full and may also include a low-fuel warning light.
The reading is an estimate and can change slightly when the vehicle is on a slope, accelerating, braking or cornering. Drivers should refuel before the tank becomes completely empty.
Wikimedia.org • Santeri Viinamäki • CC BY-SA
What does a fuel gauge show?
A fuel gauge shows the approximate amount of fuel remaining in the vehicle's tank. Most gauges use a scale between empty and full.
Is a fuel gauge completely accurate?
Treat the fuel gauge as an estimate and follow the handbook’s low-fuel warnings. Do not assume that one indicated level guarantees an exact usable quantity or remaining distance; the display and warning behaviour depend on the vehicle.
315. Petrol
Petrol, also called gasoline, is a liquid fuel commonly used in spark-ignition engines. It is produced mainly from petroleum and may contain renewable components such as ethanol.
Different grades of petrol are identified by their octane rating and ethanol content. Drivers should always use a fuel that meets the specifications recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
Wikimedia.org • WhisperToMe • CC0
What is the difference between E5 and E10 petrol?
E5 and E10 indicate the permitted ethanol content of petrol. E5 contains up to 5% ethanol by volume, while E10 contains up to 10%. Drivers should check whether their vehicle is compatible with the selected fuel.
🔗 energy.gov • US Department of Energy, Internal Combustion Engine Basics
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, BEV components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, fuel-cell electric components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, hybrid components
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, E10 petrol explained; GB fuel-compatibility example
316. Diesel
Diesel is a liquid fuel used in compression-ignition engines. Unlike petrol engines, diesel engines ignite the fuel through the heat produced by compressing air rather than by using spark plugs.
Diesel fuels can contain renewable components such as biodiesel. Drivers should always use a diesel grade that is approved by the vehicle manufacturer, as using an incompatible fuel can damage the engine or fuel system.
Wikimedia.org • Okq8 se • CC BY-SA
Can every diesel vehicle use every type of diesel?
No. Compatibility depends on the vehicle and engine. Drivers should follow the manufacturer's specifications before using fuels such as B10, higher biodiesel blends or synthetic diesel.
🔗 energy.gov • US Department of Energy, Internal Combustion Engine Basics
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, BEV components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, fuel-cell electric components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, hybrid components
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, E10 petrol explained; GB fuel-compatibility example
317. Diesel exhaust fluid
Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) is a liquid used by many modern diesel vehicles with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems to reduce harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. In Europe it is commonly known by the trade name AdBlue.
DEF is not diesel fuel and is stored in a separate tank. It is a solution containing high-purity urea and water that is injected into the exhaust system, where it helps convert nitrogen oxides into less harmful substances.
Wikimedia.org • Lenborje • CC BY-SA
What should you do when the DEF warning appears?
Refill the DEF tank with fluid that meets the specification required by the vehicle manufacturer. Do not ignore the warning, because some vehicles can restrict operation or prevent restarting if the DEF supply becomes empty.
🔗 audi.nl • Audi Nederland, AdBlue refill and empty-tank restart warning
318. Car insurance
Car insurance is financial protection for risks associated with owning or using a motor vehicle. Depending on the policy, it can cover liability for injury or damage caused to other people, as well as damage to, theft of or other losses involving the insured vehicle.
The minimum insurance required by law varies between countries. Drivers can often purchase additional cover beyond the compulsory minimum, such as collision, comprehensive, theft, fire or roadside-assistance protection.
Wikimedia.org • Charles Edward Miller • CC BY-SA
What does car insurance cover?
Coverage depends on the policy. Liability insurance generally covers injury or damage caused to other people, while optional forms of insurance may also cover damage to the insured vehicle, theft, fire or other risks.
🔗 europa.eu • Your Europe, vehicle registration documents and formalities; EU example
🔗 europa.eu • Your Europe, compulsory and optional motor insurance; EU example
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, driving abroad, destination-specific documentation
🔗 gov.uk • UK Department for Transport, vehicle licensing definitions, keeper versus owner
What is the difference between liability and comprehensive insurance?
Liability insurance primarily covers damage or injury for which the insured driver is legally responsible toward others. Comprehensive or similar optional cover can also protect the insured vehicle against risks such as theft, fire, vandalism or accidental damage, depending on the policy.
🔗 europa.eu • Your Europe, vehicle registration documents and formalities; EU example
🔗 europa.eu • Your Europe, compulsory and optional motor insurance; EU example
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, driving abroad, destination-specific documentation
🔗 gov.uk • UK Department for Transport, vehicle licensing definitions, keeper versus owner
319. First aid kit
A first aid kit is a collection of medical supplies intended for providing immediate basic care after an injury or accident. A vehicle first aid kit commonly contains items such as sterile dressings, bandages, adhesive plasters and other basic wound-care materials.
Some countries require certain vehicles to carry a first aid kit, while in others it is only recommended. The kit should be stored where it can be reached when needed, and its contents should be checked regularly so that required items remain complete and usable.
Wikimedia.org • Red Cross • CC0
Why should a first aid kit be carried in a vehicle?
A first aid kit provides basic materials that can be used to treat injuries or control bleeding while waiting for professional medical assistance.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 7, first aid on the road; national guidance example
🔗 nhs.uk • NHS, head injury and concussion, emergency warning signs
320. Fire extinguisher
A fire extinguisher is a portable safety device used to control or extinguish a small fire. Vehicle fire extinguishers are designed for fires that may involve materials, fuel, electrical equipment or other components, depending on the extinguisher type.
Some countries require certain vehicles to carry a fire extinguisher, while in others it is only recommended. An extinguisher should be securely mounted, readily accessible, suitable for vehicle use and kept in working condition.
Wikimedia.org • Senado Federal • CC BY
What should you do if your vehicle catches fire?
Stop safely, get everyone out and move to a safe place away from the vehicle. Call the emergency services. Do not open a burning engine compartment or put yourself at risk trying to fight the fire.
🔗 gov.uk • UK Highway Code, vehicle maintenance, Vehicle fire safety; 🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian Vehicle Technical Regulations, Article 70, extinguisher mounting (Belgian example)
Where should a vehicle fire extinguisher be kept?
It should be securely mounted in an accessible location and protected from damage. Drivers should also check its condition, seal and expiry or service information according to the applicable requirements.
321. High-visibility clothing
High-visibility clothing is clothing designed to make a person easier for other road users to see. It commonly uses bright fluorescent material combined with retro-reflective strips that reflect light from vehicle headlights.
High-visibility clothing is especially useful when a driver or passenger must leave a vehicle after a breakdown or emergency. Requirements vary between countries, so drivers should check whether a reflective safety vest must be carried or worn.
Wikimedia.org • Kecko • CC BY
Is high-visibility clothing compulsory for drivers?
This depends on the country. Some countries require a reflective vest to be carried in the vehicle and worn in specified breakdown or emergency situations, while others only recommend it.
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, driving abroad and destination equipment requirements
322. Towing rope
A towing rope is a strong flexible rope, strap or cable used to connect a disabled vehicle to another vehicle so that it can be towed. It should only be attached to towing points designed for this purpose and must be suitable for the weight of the vehicle.
Towing with a rope requires careful coordination between both drivers because the towed vehicle may have reduced steering and braking assistance. National rules can restrict where and how a vehicle may be towed, and professional recovery is safer when the vehicle cannot be controlled normally.
Wikimedia.org • Stephen West • CC BY
Can a vehicle always be towed with a rope?
No. Some vehicles cannot safely be rope-towed because of their transmission, steering, braking system or drivetrain, and national traffic rules may prohibit rope towing on certain roads. The vehicle manufacturer's instructions and local rules should therefore be checked first.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 274–279, breakdowns; national guidance example
323. First aid
First aid is the immediate assistance given to a person who is injured or suddenly becomes ill before professional medical help is available. Its purpose is to preserve life, prevent the condition from becoming worse and support recovery.
At a road accident, first aid begins with making sure the scene is safe, assessing the casualty and contacting the emergency services when necessary. Assistance should be limited to actions the helper knows how to perform safely.
Wikimedia.org • Cory H Jones • CC BY-SA
Should an injured person always be moved?
No. An injured person should generally not be moved unnecessarily because movement can worsen certain injuries. Moving the casualty may be necessary when remaining in the location creates an immediate danger, such as fire or approaching traffic.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 7, first aid on the road; national guidance example
🔗 nhs.uk • NHS, head injury and concussion, emergency warning signs
324. Guardrail
A guardrail is a roadside safety barrier designed to reduce the consequences of a vehicle leaving the roadway. It can help redirect or contain an errant vehicle and separate traffic from hazards such as steep slopes, bridge structures, fixed objects or opposing traffic.
Guardrails are intended to reduce the severity of a collision rather than prevent every crash. Their design, location and construction depend on the road, traffic conditions and the hazard they are intended to protect against.
Wikimedia.org • Ralf Lotys • CC BY
Does a guardrail make leaving the road safe?
No. Hitting a guardrail can still cause serious injury or vehicle damage. The barrier is used when it is expected to reduce the consequences compared with reaching the hazard located behind it.
325. Cable barrier
A cable barrier is a flexible roadside or median safety barrier made from tensioned steel cables supported by posts. It is designed to contain or redirect a vehicle that leaves its lane and reduce the risk of reaching more dangerous hazards or crossing into opposing traffic.
Unlike rigid concrete barriers, cable barriers can deform considerably when struck, absorbing part of the impact energy. Their design, positioning and number of cables depend on the road layout, traffic conditions and level of containment required.
Wikimedia.org • Joel Torsson • CC0
Can a cable barrier prevent every vehicle from crossing it?
No. Its performance depends on factors such as vehicle type, speed, impact angle and the design and condition of the barrier. Like other safety barriers, it is intended to reduce crash severity rather than guarantee that every vehicle will be stopped.
🔗 highways.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, Guardrail 101, purpose and limitations
🔗 highways.fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, barriers, terminals and concrete/cable system design FAQ