Traffic signsWorldwide
Traffic rules
Worldwide
201. Public square
A public square is an open public space where one or more roads, streets or pedestrian routes meet. Squares are commonly found in towns and cities and may provide space for traffic, pedestrians, parking, public transport, markets or other public activities.
The traffic arrangement within a square can vary considerably. It may contain roadways, pedestrian areas, cycle facilities, parking spaces or restricted-access areas, so road users must follow the traffic signs, road markings, priority rules and local regulations applying within the square.
Wikimedia.org • Samuli Lintula • CC BY
What is a square?
A square is an open space in a town or city, often surrounded by buildings and used as a meeting place. It may connect streets or pedestrian routes. Check the actual access and traffic controls rather than assuming its name determines who may drive there.
🔗 gov.uk • UK Government, National Design Guide, public spaces
Who has priority in a square?
There is no universal priority rule simply because traffic is in a square. Road users must follow the traffic lights, priority signs, road markings and ordinary priority rules applying at the location.
Is there a special speed limit for squares?
Not generally. The applicable speed depends on the road, zone and traffic signs. Lower limits may apply in pedestrian-oriented, residential or traffic-calmed areas.
202. Path
A path is a relatively narrow route intended for pedestrians and, where permitted, other road users or small vehicles. Paths may run through urban areas, countryside, parks, forests or between other roads and can be surfaced or unsurfaced.
A path is not necessarily the same as a footpath or cycle path. The road users permitted to use it depend on its legal status, width, traffic signs and local regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Tangopaso • CC0
Is a path the same as a footpath?
Not necessarily. A footpath is specifically intended for pedestrians, while a path may also permit cyclists or other users according to local rules.
Can cyclists use a path?
This depends on the legal status, width and signs applying to the path. Some paths permit cyclists, while others are reserved for pedestrians or particular users.
Can motor vehicles use a path?
This depends on local law. Some paths prohibit motor vehicles entirely, while narrow vehicles may be permitted on other paths unless traffic signs restrict access.
Who has priority when a path joins a larger road?
The applicable local priority rules determine who must give way. Special rules often apply when a minor path joins an ordinary road.
203. Particulates
Particulates, or particulate matter (PM), are tiny solid particles or liquid droplets suspended in the air. In road traffic, particulate emissions can come from vehicle exhaust, brake wear, tyre wear and road-surface wear, as well as dust that is disturbed by passing traffic.
Particulate matter is commonly classified by particle size. PM10 refers to particles with a diameter of up to approximately 10 micrometres, while PM2.5 refers to finer particles of up to approximately 2.5 micrometres. Vehicle emission standards, particulate filters and air-quality measures are used to reduce exposure to these pollutants.
Wikimedia.org • wili hybrid • CC BY
What are particulates?
Particulates, or particulate matter, are very small solid particles or liquid droplets suspended in the air.
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, Particulate Matter Basics
🔗 fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, particulate matter and road-transport sources
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, AP-42 section 13.2.1.1, paved-road emissions and dust resuspension
What are PM10 and PM2.5?
PM10 refers to particles with a diameter of up to approximately 10 micrometres. PM2.5 refers to finer particles with a diameter of up to approximately 2.5 micrometres.
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, Particulate Matter Basics
🔗 fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, particulate matter and road-transport sources
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, AP-42 section 13.2.1.1, paved-road emissions and dust resuspension
Where do traffic particulates come from?
Road traffic can produce particles through engine exhaust, brake wear, tyre wear and road-surface wear. Passing traffic can also resuspend dust already present on the road.
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, Particulate Matter Basics
🔗 fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, particulate matter and road-transport sources
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, AP-42 section 13.2.1.1, paved-road emissions and dust resuspension
204. Air pollution
Air pollution is the presence of gases, particles or other substances in the air at concentrations that can harm human health, the environment or ecosystems. Road traffic contributes to air pollution through exhaust emissions and through non-exhaust sources such as brake wear, tyre wear and road dust.
Important traffic-related pollutants include nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds. Some pollutants are emitted directly by vehicles, while others can form in the atmosphere through chemical reactions. Vehicle-emission standards, cleaner technologies and traffic-management measures are used to reduce these emissions.
Wikimedia.org • Emmanuelkwizera • CC BY-SA
What is air pollution?
Air pollution is the presence of harmful gases, particles or other contaminants in the air. Road transport can contribute through engine emissions, vehicle wear and dust; the sources and pollutants differ by vehicle and conditions.
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, smog and vehicle emissions
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, Particulate Matter Basics
🔗 fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, particulate matter and road-transport sources
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, AP-42 section 13.2.1.1, paved-road emissions and dust resuspension
How does road traffic cause air pollution?
Vehicles with combustion engines can emit exhaust pollutants. Road traffic also produces particles through brake, tyre and road-surface wear and can stir up road dust. Vehicles without tailpipe emissions can still contribute to these non-exhaust sources.
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, smog and vehicle emissions
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, Particulate Matter Basics
🔗 fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, particulate matter and road-transport sources
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, AP-42 section 13.2.1.1, paved-road emissions and dust resuspension
Which air pollutants are associated with road traffic?
Important traffic-related pollutants include nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds. Their relative importance depends on the vehicle, fuel and driving conditions.
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, smog and vehicle emissions
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, Particulate Matter Basics
🔗 fhwa.dot.gov • US FHWA, particulate matter and road-transport sources
🔗 epa.gov • US EPA, AP-42 section 13.2.1.1, paved-road emissions and dust resuspension
205. Interchange
An interchange is a road junction designed to allow traffic to move between two or more major roads, usually using ramps, bridges or tunnels so that conflicting traffic streams do not have to cross at the same level. Interchanges are commonly found on motorways, expressways and other high-capacity roads.
Drivers should follow the direction signs, lane arrows and route numbers in good time and choose the correct lane before reaching the required exit or connecting ramp. Speed limits, merging rules and lane arrangements vary between countries and individual interchanges.
Wikimedia.org • Sea Cow • CC BY-SA
What is an interchange?
An interchange is a system of connecting roads that lets traffic transfer between highways that do not meet at the same level. It uses grade separation, such as bridges or tunnels, together with connecting ramps or roadways.
How should you approach an interchange?
Read the advance-direction signs early, identify your route or destination and move into the appropriate lane in sufficient time.
Can speed limits change on interchange ramps?
Yes. Ramps may have lower speed limits or require a lower safe speed because of bends, merging traffic or limited visibility.
206. Intersection
An intersection is a place where two or more roads meet, cross or branch. Intersections allow traffic to move between different roads and may be controlled by traffic lights, traffic signs, road markings or general priority rules.
Drivers approaching an intersection should observe the applicable priority rules, adjust their speed and watch carefully for vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians and other road users approaching from different directions.
Wikimedia.org • Mos.ru • CC BY
How should you approach an intersection?
Approach at a suitable speed, observe signs and signals, check for traffic from all directions and be prepared to give way or stop when required.
207. Box junction
A box junction is a marked area of the roadway, usually located at an intersection, that must be kept clear to prevent vehicles from blocking crossing traffic. It is commonly indicated by a box filled with diagonal or criss-cross road markings, although its appearance and legal meaning can differ between countries.
Drivers should generally not enter a box junction unless there is enough space to leave it. This helps keep intersections clear when traffic is congested and prevents vehicles from obstructing traffic travelling in other directions.
Wikimedia.org • Emdcsc • CC BY
Why are box junctions used?
Box junctions help prevent intersections from becoming blocked during heavy traffic, allowing cross traffic and other road users to continue moving.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 174, 178 and 191–199; national guidance example
208. Rush hour
Rush hour is a period when roads and public transport networks experience particularly high demand, commonly because large numbers of people are travelling to or from work, school or other regular destinations. It usually occurs during the morning and late afternoon or evening on working days.
Rush-hour traffic can result in congestion, slower speeds, longer journeys and frequent stopping. Drivers should maintain a safe following distance, remain patient, anticipate changing traffic conditions and follow any temporary or dynamic traffic-management measures.
Wikimedia.org • MDRX • CC BY-SA
What is rush hour?
Rush hour is a period when unusually large numbers of people travel at the same time, resulting in increased traffic and often congestion.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 126 and 133–134; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 174 and 192; national guidance example
Should you increase your following distance in rush-hour traffic?
Yes. Leave sufficient distance to react to sudden braking and frequent changes in traffic speed. Avoid following another vehicle too closely even when traffic is moving slowly.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 126 and 133–134; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 174 and 192; national guidance example
Can speed limits change during rush hour?
Yes. Roads equipped with variable traffic management may display lower speed limits during congestion. Drivers must follow the speed limit currently indicated.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 126 and 133–134; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 174 and 192; national guidance example
209. Filling station
A filling station is a facility where motor vehicles can obtain fuel such as petrol, diesel or other vehicle fuels. Many filling stations also provide additional services such as electric vehicle charging, air for tyres, vehicle supplies, toilets, food or a convenience shop.
Filling stations located along major roads and motorways are often indicated by information or service signs. Drivers should reduce speed before entering, follow the designated access routes and take particular care because vehicles and pedestrians may be moving around the station.
Wikimedia.org • Asurnipal • CC BY-SA
What should you watch for when entering a filling station?
Reduce your speed, follow the designated entrance and traffic direction and watch carefully for vehicles, pedestrians and people moving around the fuel pumps.
210. Road code
A road code is a collection of laws and traffic rules that regulate how people use public roads. It establishes rules for drivers, cyclists, pedestrians and other road users and covers subjects such as priority, speed, overtaking, parking, traffic lights, road signs and road markings.
Road codes differ between countries and sometimes between regions. Every road user is expected to know and follow the rules that apply where they are travelling, even when those rules differ from those in their home country.
Are road codes the same in every country?
No. Although many traffic rules and signs are similar internationally, each country establishes its own traffic legislation and may apply different rules, signs, speed limits and requirements.
211. Two-way traffic
Two-way traffic means that vehicles are permitted to travel in opposite directions on the same road or carriageway. The opposing traffic streams may be separated by road markings, a central reservation or, on narrower roads, no physical separation at all.
Drivers on a two-way road should keep to the side required by local traffic rules, remain aware of approaching vehicles and take particular care when overtaking, turning or passing through narrow sections.
Wikimedia.org • Marc Mongenet • CC BY-SA
Why should you take extra care on a two-way road?
Vehicles may approach from the opposite direction, so drivers should maintain a safe position and take particular care when overtaking, turning or passing through narrow sections.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 160–169; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 135–138; national guidance example
212. Tram stop
A tram stop is a designated location where a tram stops to allow passengers to board or leave. A tram stop may be located beside a pavement, on a raised platform or refuge island, or alongside tracks incorporated directly into the roadway.
Drivers and other road users should approach tram stops with particular care because passengers may need to cross part of the road to reach or leave the tram. Parking, passing and priority rules around tram stops vary between countries, so road users must follow the local traffic signs and regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Stacey Harris • CC BY-SA
What is a tram stop?
A tram stop is a designated place where trams stop so that passengers can board or leave the vehicle.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 300–307; national guidance example
How can you recognise a tram stop?
Tram stops may be identified by a tram-stop marker or sign, platform, shelter, timetable or transport markings. Here, stop sign means a stop-location marker, not necessarily the octagonal regulatory STOP sign used for road traffic.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 300–307; national guidance example
Tram stop.
Can passengers cross the road to reach a tram?
Yes. At some stops passengers must cross a traffic lane to reach the tram. Local traffic laws may require approaching drivers to stop or give passengers sufficient opportunity to cross safely.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 300–307; national guidance example
213. Train station
A train station is a place on a railway network where trains stop to allow passengers to board, leave or change trains. Stations may include platforms, waiting areas, ticket facilities and connections with other forms of transport.
Train stations are often important transport hubs and may provide access to buses, trams, metros, taxis, bicycle facilities, parking areas and passenger drop-off zones. Travellers and drivers approaching a station must follow the applicable traffic signs, parking rules and railway safety instructions.
Wikimedia.org • Czeva • CC BY-SA
What is a train station?
A train station is a railway facility where trains stop so passengers can board, leave or transfer between services.
🔗 networkrail.co.uk • Network Rail, Paddington station facilities and onward transport
🔗 networkrail.co.uk • Network Rail, Victoria station facilities and onward transport
What facilities can a train station have?
Stations may include platforms, waiting areas, ticket machines, information displays, toilets, shops, bicycle parking and car parking. Facilities vary greatly between stations.
🔗 networkrail.co.uk • Network Rail, Paddington station facilities and onward transport
🔗 networkrail.co.uk • Network Rail, Victoria station facilities and onward transport
Can a train station connect with other public transport?
Yes. Many stations act as transport hubs connecting trains with buses, trams, metros, taxis, bicycles or other forms of transport.
🔗 networkrail.co.uk • Network Rail, Paddington station facilities and onward transport
🔗 networkrail.co.uk • Network Rail, Victoria station facilities and onward transport
214. 2+1 Road
A 2+1 road is a road with three traffic lanes where one direction has two lanes and the opposite direction has one lane. The two-lane section normally alternates between directions at intervals, giving traffic in each direction regular opportunities to overtake slower vehicles.
The opposing directions may be separated by road markings or a central safety barrier. Where a barrier is used, the design can reduce the risk of head-on collisions while still providing periodic overtaking sections.
Wikimedia.org • Skvattram • CC0
Are the opposing directions separated on a 2+1 road?
They may be separated by road markings or by a central safety barrier. Barrier-separated designs are particularly intended to prevent vehicles from entering the opposing traffic stream.
215. 2+2 Road
A 2+2 road is a road with two traffic lanes in each direction, providing a total of four lanes for through traffic. The opposing directions may be separated by a median, safety barrier, other physical divider or, on some roads, only by road markings.
The additional lane in each direction allows vehicles to overtake, change lanes and accommodate higher traffic volumes more easily than on a road with only one lane in each direction. Drivers must follow the applicable lane-use, overtaking and road-position rules.
Wikimedia.org • Trans5999 • CC0
Which lane should you normally use on a 2+2 road?
This depends on the country's traffic rules. In countries where traffic keeps right, drivers should generally use the right-hand lane unless there is a reason to use another lane, such as overtaking or preparing for a turn.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 160–169; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 135–138; national guidance example
216. Passing lane
A passing lane is a traffic lane primarily used for overtaking slower vehicles travelling in the same direction. On roads with several lanes in each direction, it is normally the lane farther from the side used for ordinary driving.
In countries where traffic keeps right, the passing lane is generally on the left; in countries where traffic keeps left, it is generally on the right. Drivers should return to the normal travel lane after overtaking when required by local traffic rules.
Wikimedia.org • Garrett • CC BY
Can you remain in the passing lane after overtaking?
The exact rules vary between countries, but drivers are commonly expected to return to the normal travel lane after completing an overtake when it is safe and required.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 160–169; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 135–138; national guidance example
217. Reversible lane
A reversible lane is a traffic lane whose permitted direction of travel can be changed at different times to provide additional capacity in the direction with the greatest traffic demand. It is commonly used on roads where traffic flows strongly in one direction during certain periods and in the opposite direction at other times.
Reversible lanes are normally controlled by overhead lane signals, traffic lights, signs or movable barriers. Drivers must enter the lane only when the signals indicate that travel in their direction is permitted.
Wikimedia.org • Bobanny • CC0
Why are reversible lanes used?
They allow road authorities to increase capacity in the busiest direction without permanently adding another traffic lane.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 133–134; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 257–258; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • UK Department for Transport, Know Your Traffic Signs, information signs
218. Street gutter
A street gutter is a narrow channel along the edge of a road or street that collects and carries rainwater toward drains or other drainage systems. It is commonly located between the carriageway and the kerb and may be formed from concrete, paving stones or part of the road surface.
A street gutter is primarily a drainage feature rather than a traffic lane. Road users should take care near gutters because they may contain water, debris, drain openings or uneven surfaces.
Wikimedia.org • Airman 1st Class Alystria Maurer • CC0
Why should cyclists take care near street gutters?
Gutters may contain water, leaves, debris, drain covers or uneven surfaces, which can reduce grip or make cycling less stable.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example
219. Road debris
Road debris consists of objects, materials or substances that are lying on or have fallen onto the road and may interfere with traffic. Examples include pieces of vehicles, lost cargo, stones, branches, broken glass, litter and materials spilled from vehicles.
Road debris can create a serious hazard for drivers, cyclists and other road users. Drivers should watch the road ahead, reduce speed when necessary and avoid sudden manoeuvres when safely passing an obstruction.
Wikimedia.org • Mike Peel • CC BY-SA
What should you do when you see debris on the road?
Reduce speed when necessary, maintain control of your vehicle and avoid the debris only when you can do so safely. Avoid sudden braking or steering that could endanger other road users.
220. Cargo bike
A cargo bike is a bicycle designed to transport goods, children or other larger loads than can normally be carried on a conventional bicycle. Cargo bikes may use a box or platform in front of or behind the rider, an extended rear carrier or a multi-wheel design.
Cargo bikes can be powered entirely by the rider or equipped with electric pedal assistance. Their permitted dimensions, passenger capacity, use of cycle paths and electrical-assistance limits depend on the local traffic and vehicle regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Clément Bucco-Lechat • CC BY-SA
What is a cargo bike?
A cargo bike is a bicycle designed to carry goods, children or larger loads than a conventional bicycle.
🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule
🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example
Can a cargo bike carry children?
Yes, when it is designed and equipped for passenger transport. Children should use the seats, restraints, foot protection or other safety equipment provided by the manufacturer and required by local law.
🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule
🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example
Is a helmet compulsory on a cargo bike?
This depends on the country's bicycle rules and the vehicle's classification. A model legally classified as a faster motorised vehicle may have different helmet requirements from an ordinary cargo bicycle.
🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule
🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example
221. Lane splitting
Lane splitting is the practice of riding a motorcycle or another permitted two-wheeled vehicle between two lanes or queues of traffic travelling in the same direction. When it is done through stationary or slow-moving traffic, it is also commonly called lane filtering.
Lane splitting can reduce the time motorcycles spend in congestion but requires particular care because vehicles may change lanes, open gaps or move unexpectedly. Whether lane splitting is permitted, which vehicles may do it and any applicable speed limits depend on the local traffic laws.
Wikimedia.org • Eric Schmuttenmaer • CC BY-SA
What is lane splitting?
Lane splitting means riding a motorcycle between rows of vehicles travelling in the same direction, including stopped queues where the local definition permits it. For example, California’s definition covers both stopped and moving vehicles; it does not include riding on the shoulder.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 88, filtering; national guidance example
Can motorcycles lane split at any speed?
No. Where lane splitting is permitted, local rules may impose a maximum motorcycle speed, a maximum speed difference compared with surrounding traffic or both.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 88, filtering; national guidance example
Does permission to lane split give the motorcyclist priority?
No automatic universal priority exists. Riders and other drivers must continue to follow the applicable manoeuvring, lane-changing and right-of-way rules.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 88, filtering; national guidance example
222. Forestry vehicle
A forestry vehicle is a vehicle designed, equipped or adapted for work connected with forestry and woodland management. It may be used to pull machinery, transport timber, carry equipment or perform operations such as harvesting, forwarding or maintaining forest land.
Forestry vehicles can include tractors, specialised self-propelled machines, trailers and interchangeable equipment. Their registration, driving-licence requirements, maximum speed, road access and technical requirements depend on the vehicle's legal classification and the local traffic regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Antti Leppänen • CC BY-SA
What is a forestry vehicle?
A forestry vehicle is a vehicle designed or adapted for forestry work, such as pulling machinery, carrying equipment, transporting timber or working on forest land.
Do forestry vehicles have special speed limits?
They may. The permitted speed can depend on the vehicle's construction speed, mass, road type and local traffic rules. Posted speed limits must also be respected.
Can forestry equipment extend beyond the normal width of the vehicle?
Yes. Machinery and attached implements can make a forestry vehicle unusually wide or long. Check the applicable dimensions and special-vehicle rules before using the road. British guidance, for example, includes attached implements in width checks and describes extra arrangements for wide agricultural or forestry vehicles.
🔗 gov.uk • DfT, tractors and tracked vehicles on public roads
223. Construction vehicle
A construction vehicle is a vehicle or mobile machine designed or adapted for work connected with construction, roadworks, excavation, lifting or the movement of materials. Examples include excavators, loaders, bulldozers, road rollers, mobile cranes, dump trucks and concrete mixers.
Construction vehicles vary greatly in size, speed and legal classification. Some are ordinary road vehicles, while others are specialised machines intended mainly for use on construction sites. When travelling on public roads, they must comply with the applicable registration, licensing, lighting, dimensions, weight, speed and traffic rules.
Wikimedia.org • Sunridin • CC BY
What is a construction vehicle?
A construction vehicle is a vehicle or mobile machine used for construction, excavation, lifting, roadworks or transporting construction materials.
Do construction vehicles have special speed limits?
They may. The permitted speed can depend on the vehicle’s design, mass, legal category and the road. Do not assume that a construction machine has the same limit as a car; follow both the road limit and any lower vehicle-specific limit.
What should you do when passing a construction vehicle?
Reduce speed where necessary and leave sufficient space. Be aware of blind spots, projecting equipment, wide turns and workers who may be present nearby.
224. Semi-trailer truck
A semi-trailer truck is a combination consisting of a road tractor and a semi-trailer used primarily for transporting goods. The semi-trailer is coupled to the tractor so that a significant part of its weight is supported by the tractor rather than entirely by its own wheels.
Semi-trailer trucks are commonly used for long-distance freight transport and may carry containers, refrigerated goods, liquids, bulk materials or other cargo. Special rules can apply concerning driving licences, maximum dimensions and masses, speed limits, lane use, overtaking, loading and driving and rest periods.
Wikimedia.org • High Contrast • CC BY
What is a semi-trailer truck?
A semi-trailer truck consists of a powered road tractor coupled to a semi-trailer primarily used to transport goods.
What is the difference between a semi-trailer and an ordinary trailer?
A semi-trailer is designed so that a substantial part of its own weight and load is supported by the towing vehicle. Other trailer designs support the load differently; some also impose a vertical load on the towing vehicle. Check the actual trailer and coupling ratings.
Do semi-trailer trucks have lower speed limits?
They often do. Many countries impose vehicle-specific maximum speeds on heavy goods vehicles, particularly on motorways and other high-speed roads.
225. Trolleybus
A trolleybus is an electrically powered bus that normally obtains its energy from overhead electrical wires through current collectors mounted on the vehicle. Unlike a tram, a trolleybus runs on ordinary road wheels and is steered by its driver rather than being guided by rails.
Trolleybuses are generally used for public passenger transport and may use bus lanes, stops and other public-transport infrastructure. Some modern trolleybuses also have batteries or auxiliary power systems that allow them to travel short distances without remaining connected to the overhead wires.
Wikimedia.org • Carl-Johan Aberger • CC0
What is a trolleybus?
A trolleybus is an electrically powered bus that normally receives electricity from overhead wires while travelling on ordinary road wheels.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 223, buses; national guidance example
Is a trolleybus the same as a tram?
No. A tram runs on rails and follows the path of its tracks. A trolleybus has ordinary tyres and is steered like a conventional bus.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 223, buses; national guidance example
Do trolleybuses have priority when leaving stops?
This depends on the local traffic law. Some countries require other drivers to allow public-transport buses, including trolleybuses, to leave designated stops.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 223, buses; national guidance example