Señales de tráficoMundial

A speed pedelec is an electrically assisted pedal cycle capable of providing motor assistance at higher speeds than an ordinary electric bicycle, commonly up to approximately 45 km/h.

An ordinary electrically assisted bicycle normally stops providing motor assistance at a lower speed, commonly around 25 km/h. A speed pedelec can continue assisting the rider at higher speeds.

Normally yes. A speed pedelec is primarily designed to provide assistance while the rider pedals, although limited walking or starting assistance may also be provided.

Many speed pedelecs are designed to provide assistance up to approximately 45 km/h. The actual permitted speed must still comply with the local speed limit and traffic conditions.

This depends on the country's legal classification. Some countries classify speed pedelecs similarly to mopeds and require an appropriate driving licence.

Helmet requirements vary between countries, but because speed pedelecs travel considerably faster than ordinary bicycles, specific helmet requirements commonly apply.

In countries where speed pedelecs are classified as mopeds or another motor-vehicle category, registration and a licence plate may be compulsory.

This depends on its technical characteristics and local law. Some jurisdictions require motor-vehicle liability insurance, while others exempt pedal-assisted speed pedelecs under specified conditions.

This depends on the country, road speed limit and traffic signs. Speed pedelecs may be permitted, required or prohibited on particular cycle paths.

Speed pedelecs are generally unsuitable for motorways and are commonly prohibited where mopeds or low-speed vehicles are not permitted. Follow the local access rules.

This depends on the vehicle's construction and local rules. Where passengers are permitted, the speed pedelec must be designed and equipped to carry them safely.

No. A speed pedelec is primarily designed to provide pedal assistance, while an electric moped can normally propel itself without requiring the rider to pedal. Their legal classifications may nevertheless be closely related.

A delivery vehicle is a vehicle used to transport goods, parcels, supplies or other items to a particular destination.

No. Deliveries can be made using vans, trucks, cars, motorcycles, cargo bicycles or other suitable vehicles.

Yes, where stopping is legally permitted. Many traffic systems distinguish genuine loading or unloading from ordinary parking when the vehicle remains only for the time necessary to perform the activity.

A loading area is intended for active loading or unloading. Remaining there after the delivery activity has finished may constitute parking and may therefore violate the applicable restrictions.

Sometimes. Traffic signs may provide an exception for deliveries, loading and unloading or local access. The driver must comply with any times, vehicle restrictions or other conditions shown.

Only where local rules or signs specifically allow delivery access. Access may be limited to certain hours, and vehicles may be required to travel at very low speed and give priority to pedestrians.

Not automatically. Loading or unloading does not override general stopping restrictions or rules protecting pavements, cycle paths and other road users.

No. Hazard warning lights warn other road users but do not make an otherwise prohibited stopping or parking position legal.

Yes. Vans and trucks may be subject to low-emission-zone requirements based on factors such as fuel type, vehicle category and emission standard.

Yes. Delivery vehicles may stop frequently, reverse, open doors or move between the roadway and loading areas. Other road users should allow sufficient space and anticipate pedestrians or workers moving around the vehicle.

Idling means keeping a vehicle's engine running while the vehicle remains stationary and the engine is not being used to propel it.

Unnecessary idling uses fuel, produces exhaust emissions and creates noise without moving the vehicle.

No. Rules differ between countries and local authorities. Some prohibit unnecessary idling generally, while others restrict it only in particular locations or circumstances.

Yes. A combustion engine continues to produce exhaust gases while running even though the vehicle is not moving.

Yes. A combustion engine consumes fuel while it remains running, even when the vehicle is stationary.

Where it is safe and legal to switch the engine off, unnecessary prolonged idling should generally be avoided. Local rules may specifically require the engine to be switched off.

No. A vehicle temporarily prevented from moving by traffic conditions is different from a vehicle voluntarily parked or waiting. The rules concerning engine shutdown may therefore differ.

Some laws provide exceptions when the engine is genuinely required to operate refrigeration, hydraulic equipment, emergency equipment or another essential system. The precise exceptions depend on local law.

Unnecessary engine revving should be avoided because it increases noise, fuel consumption and emissions. It may also be specifically prohibited by local traffic or noise regulations.

Not in the conventional combustion-engine sense. An electric vehicle can remain stationary while switched on without an internal-combustion engine running, although electrical systems such as heating or air conditioning may still consume energy.

A tow truck is a specialised vehicle designed to recover, tow, lift or transport vehicles that are disabled, damaged or otherwise need to be removed.

Tow trucks may use a wheel lift, lifting arm, winch, towing equipment or loading platform. The recovery method depends on the type and condition of the vehicle being moved.

A flatbed tow truck carries the recovered vehicle on a loading platform rather than leaving some of its wheels on the road.

A tow truck may be used after a breakdown, collision, vehicle defect or other situation in which a vehicle cannot safely continue or must be removed.

Warning lights alert other road users that the tow truck is working, moving slowly or creating an unusual roadside hazard. The meaning and permitted colour of the lights depend on local law.

Not necessarily. Warning lights used for vehicle recovery usually indicate a hazard rather than giving the tow truck the same legal priority as a police car, ambulance or fire vehicle.

This depends on the local towing rules and equipment. Emergency towing may be permitted under limited conditions, while professional recovery vehicles can use specialised equipment designed for the task.

Yes, where authorised and suitably equipped. Motorway recovery may be subject to special safety procedures because of the high traffic speeds and restricted stopping areas.

Yes. Recovery personnel may be working close to live traffic and vehicles or equipment may occupy part of the roadway. Reduce speed where necessary and leave sufficient space.

Yes, if it is designed and rated for the vehicle concerned. Heavy recovery vehicles use specialised lifting and towing equipment for trucks, buses and other large vehicles.

Four-wheel drive is a drivetrain system that can send power to all four wheels of a vehicle rather than only the front or rear wheels.

4x4 normally indicates a vehicle with four wheels of which all four can be driven by the powertrain.

The terms 4WD and AWD are sometimes used interchangeably, but manufacturers often use them for different types of system. Traditional 4WD systems commonly provide selectable driving modes, while AWD systems often distribute power automatically.

Yes. Sending power to more wheels can improve traction when accelerating on snow, mud, gravel, sand or other low-grip surfaces.

Not automatically. Braking performance depends primarily on the tyres, road surface, speed, braking system and vehicle condition. Four-wheel drive should not encourage a driver to travel faster on slippery roads.

Yes. The tyres provide the contact between the vehicle and road. Four-wheel drive cannot compensate for tyres that are unsuitable, excessively worn or incorrectly inflated.

Yes. It can improve the ability to move away and climb on snow-covered roads, but safe braking and cornering still depend heavily on tyre grip and appropriate speed.

Some 4x4 vehicles are designed for off-road use, but four-wheel drive alone does not make every vehicle suitable for difficult terrain. Ground clearance, tyres, suspension and the drivetrain design are also important.

This depends on the type of drivetrain. Permanent or automatic systems are designed for normal road use, while some selectable 4WD systems should only be engaged under particular conditions. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.

It can improve traction when towing, but the legally and technically permitted trailer mass is determined by the vehicle's approved towing limits and local regulations, not simply by the presence of four-wheel drive.

A no-vehicles sign indicates that vehicles may not enter the road or area beyond the sign. The restriction normally applies to traffic approaching from either direction unless supplementary signs provide an exception.

No. A no-entry sign normally prevents traffic from entering a road from one particular direction, while a no-vehicles restriction generally closes the road to the specified traffic in both directions.

Yes, normally. Cars, motorcycles and other motor vehicles are generally covered by a prohibition applying to all vehicles or all drivers unless an exception is specifically indicated.

This depends on the country's legal definition of the sign. In many jurisdictions, bicycles are vehicles and cyclists are therefore prohibited unless a supplementary sign specifically exempts them.

Usually yes if the prohibition applies only to vehicles or drivers. A separate pedestrian prohibition may be required to prevent pedestrians from entering. Local definitions and supplementary signs must always be checked.

Only when an exception for residents, local access or authorised traffic is indicated or provided by local law. The basic sign by itself normally does not provide a general exemption for residents.

Only if deliveries are covered by an explicit exception or another local authorisation. A supplementary panel may allow access for deliveries while continuing to prohibit through traffic.

Only where public transport is specifically exempted or authorised. Supplementary signs may permit buses or other designated services to enter an otherwise restricted road.

A supplementary sign modifies the main prohibition by identifying road users, destinations, times or purposes for which access remains permitted. All other traffic continues to be prohibited.

No if the road is closed to your category of traffic. An exception for local access normally permits only traffic with a legitimate destination or purpose within the restricted area, according to the local definition.

A road user is anyone using a road or another part of the public traffic environment, including drivers, cyclists, pedestrians and other permitted users.

Yes. Pedestrians are road users even though they are not driving a vehicle.

Yes. Cyclists are road users and must follow the traffic rules applying to bicycles and cyclists.

Depending on the legal definition used in a country, passengers may fall within the broader concept of people using the public road. Specific traffic obligations, however, often apply separately to drivers, passengers and pedestrians.

No. A driver controls a vehicle, animal or another legally defined means of transport, while the broader term road user also includes people such as pedestrians.

No. Different rules apply to different categories. Pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and motor-vehicle drivers may have different permitted road positions, priority rules and equipment requirements.

Yes. Road users must obey the traffic lights, signs and road markings that apply to them.

Yes. Lawful instructions from police officers or other authorised persons must be followed. In many countries, these instructions take precedence over ordinary traffic signals and rules.

The term commonly refers to road users who have relatively little physical protection in a collision, particularly pedestrians, cyclists, children and certain users with reduced mobility.

Proceed with particular caution, observe the other road users and avoid any action that could create danger. Do not assume that another person will give way unless the applicable rule clearly requires it.

Yes. Road users should behave predictably, respect applicable priority rules and avoid unnecessarily endangering or obstructing others.

A driver is a person who controls and operates a vehicle or another form of traffic recognised as being under a person's control.

In many traffic-law systems, yes. A bicycle is legally considered a vehicle in many countries, making the person controlling it a driver or cyclist-driver for traffic-law purposes.

A driver must maintain control, follow traffic rules and signals and avoid endangering other road users. Additional responsibilities depend on the vehicle and local law.

A passenger is a person travelling in or on a vehicle without being the person responsible for driving or controlling it.

Not exactly. An occupant can include both the driver and passengers, while a passenger normally means an occupant who is not driving the vehicle.

Where seat belts are provided and their use is required, passengers must wear them correctly. Exact requirements and exemptions vary between countries.

Normally no. Vehicles must not carry more people than the number or capacity for which they are designed and legally approved.

Yes. Children travelling in a vehicle are passengers, but additional rules may require an appropriate child-restraint system depending on their age, height or weight.

Generally no. Passengers should travel only in positions designed and approved for carrying people and use any required restraint system.

This is generally prohibited except for specialised vehicles and circumstances specifically permitted by local law. Passengers should normally remain in the designated passenger compartment or seating position.

Yes, if the motorcycle is designed and equipped for one. The passenger may be required to use a proper seat, footrests, helmet and other protective equipment.

Only when the bicycle or an approved passenger-carrying device is designed and legally permitted to carry that passenger. Local rules may contain special requirements for children and trailers.

Yes. Passengers should avoid behaviour that interferes with the driver's ability to observe the road, operate the controls or concentrate on traffic.

A bicycle is a wheeled vehicle primarily propelled by the rider using pedals or hand cranks.

It can be. Electrically assisted bicycles that remain within specified power and assistance-speed limits are commonly treated as bicycles. Faster or more powerful vehicles may be classified differently.

Cyclists should use cycle paths, cycle lanes or the roadway according to the local traffic rules and signs. The required position varies between countries and road types.

This depends on the country and type of cycle facility. Some cycle paths are compulsory, while others are optional.

Yes, when required by local law. Bicycles commonly need a white or yellow light at the front and a red light at the rear during darkness or poor visibility.

Yes. A bicycle used on public roads must have an effective braking system appropriate to its design and local technical requirements.

This varies between countries. Some require helmets for all cyclists or particular age groups, while others recommend helmets without making them compulsory.

Yes, where the bicycle is appropriately equipped and local law permits it. A passenger should use a proper seat and any other required safety equipment.

This depends on local law and the road conditions. Many countries allow two cyclists to ride beside each other in certain circumstances but require single-file riding when necessary for safety or traffic flow.

In many traffic systems, a person who dismounts and walks the bicycle by hand is treated as a pedestrian. The exact legal definition depends on local law.

Motorcyclists should use appropriate protective equipment, commonly including a helmet, gloves, protective jacket and trousers, and footwear that protects the feet and ankles.

Helmet requirements depend on local law, although approved motorcycle helmets are compulsory in many countries. The helmet should fit correctly and be used in a way that preserves its protective function.

Protective clothing can reduce injuries caused by impact, abrasion and contact with the road surface. Purpose-designed motorcycle clothing may also include impact protectors for vulnerable parts of the body.

Gloves help protect the hands and wrists against abrasion, weather and impact and can also improve grip on the motorcycle controls.

Suitable boots provide protection for the feet and ankles and can reduce injuries caused by impact, abrasion or the motorcycle falling onto the rider.

Yes. Passengers are exposed to many of the same risks as riders and should use appropriate protective equipment. Local law may require the passenger to wear the same helmet and clothing as the rider.

A road-legal motorcycle normally requires functioning brakes, tyres, lights, reflectors, mirrors, a horn and other prescribed equipment. Exact technical requirements vary between countries and motorcycle categories.

Yes. Check that the headlight, rear light, brake light and direction indicators work correctly where fitted or required. Motorcycle visibility is especially important because motorcycles can be difficult for other road users to detect.

Yes. Check tyre condition, tread and pressure regularly. Because motorcycles rely on two relatively small tyre contact areas, damaged or incorrectly inflated tyres can significantly affect stability, steering and braking.

A brief check of the tyres, brakes, lights, controls, mirrors and general condition of the motorcycle can help identify problems before riding. Protective equipment should also be correctly fitted and in usable condition.

A tram is a passenger vehicle that travels on rails, commonly as part of an urban or suburban public-transport network.

Tram tracks may run within the roadway, beside it or on a separate reserved track, depending on the design of the transport system.

Not everywhere. Priority rules for trams vary between countries and can also depend on traffic lights, signs and the particular road layout.

A train is a rail vehicle or connected group of rail vehicles that travels on railway tracks and transports passengers or goods.

Road users most commonly encounter trains at level crossings, where a road crosses one or more railway tracks.

Do not enter the crossing. Obey the barriers, warning lights and audible signals and wait until the crossing is open and it is safe to proceed.

A railcar is a self-propelled railway vehicle capable of operating independently while carrying passengers, goods or another payload.

A railcar has its own propulsion system, while an ordinary railway coach normally needs to be pulled or pushed by a locomotive or another powered railway vehicle.

Road users may encounter railcars at level crossings, where they must obey the applicable railway warning signs, barriers, lights and signals.

A track consists of rails that guide trams, trains or other rail vehicles. Tracks may be separated from ordinary traffic or incorporated into a road.

Yes. Tram tracks may be embedded in the carriageway and share part of the road with other traffic, depending on the local road layout and traffic rules.

The applicable priority rules vary between countries, but rail vehicles commonly receive special priority because they cannot leave their tracks. Always obey traffic lights, signs and local rules.

This depends on the road layout and local regulations. Tracks incorporated into an ordinary traffic lane may sometimes be used by other vehicles, while reserved tram tracks or separate railway tracks may not.

You should never stop or park where your vehicle would obstruct a rail vehicle. Local traffic law may specifically prohibit stopping or parking on or close to tracks.

Wheels can slip on wet rails or become trapped in the groove beside a rail. Riders should cross tracks carefully and, where possible, at an angle that reduces the risk of a wheel following the rail groove.

No. Maintain sufficient distance so that you can react safely if the tram stops, passengers enter the roadway or traffic conditions change.

Yes, where crossing is permitted, but pedestrians should carefully check for approaching rail vehicles and obey pedestrian lights and crossing restrictions.

No. Tram tracks can be incorporated directly into a street or carriageway. A railway level crossing is a specific place where a road or path crosses railway tracks, usually with dedicated warning signs or signals.

Do not enter a track crossing unless there is enough space to clear it completely. Never deliberately stop where a tram or train could be blocked.

Public transport is shared passenger transport available to the public, commonly including buses, trams, trains and metro systems.

Public transport can include buses, trams, trains, metros, trolleybuses, ferries and other passenger services. The available modes depend on the country and transport network.

Yes. Buses and other public-transport vehicles may use lanes or sections of road reserved for them. Other vehicles may use such lanes only where local traffic rules or signs permit it.

Yes. Trams, buses and other public-transport vehicles may be controlled by special signals that operate separately from the ordinary traffic lights for other road users.

No. Priority depends on the type of vehicle and local traffic rules. Trams may have special priority rules, and buses may receive priority when leaving stops in some countries.

Yes. Passengers may be boarding, leaving or crossing near the vehicle. Drivers should reduce speed where necessary and watch carefully for pedestrians.

Parking at or near a bus or tram stop is commonly prohibited or restricted so that public-transport vehicles can reach the stop safely. The required clearance distance varies between countries.

Yes. Where passengers must cross part of the road to reach a bus or tram, drivers should follow the local rules and allow passengers to board or leave safely where required.

This depends on the local traffic signs and regulations. Some bus lanes are also open to cyclists, while others are reserved exclusively for public-transport vehicles.

Remain alert for approaching trams, avoid unnecessarily obstructing the tracks and follow the applicable priority rules, traffic lights and road markings.

A caravan is a trailer designed to be towed by another vehicle and used as temporary accommodation while travelling or camping.

Yes. A towable caravan is a type of trailer and is therefore subject to the applicable rules for trailers as well as any specific rules concerning caravans.

Check that the caravan is properly coupled, correctly loaded and secured and that the towing vehicle, trailer and driver comply with the applicable weight, equipment and driving-licence requirements.

A trailer is a vehicle designed to be pulled by another vehicle rather than propelled by its own motor.

Trailers can transport goods, equipment, vehicles, boats or other loads and can also include caravans designed for accommodation.

Check that the trailer is properly coupled, correctly loaded and secured and that the towing vehicle, trailer and driver meet the applicable weight, equipment and licensing requirements.

A tow hitch is a mechanical coupling fitted to a vehicle so that a trailer, caravan or other towable vehicle can be attached.

A tow ball is the ball-shaped part of a common passenger-car towing system onto which the trailer coupling is secured.

No. The vehicle must be approved or technically suitable for the coupling and intended towing load. Some vehicles have limited or no approved towing capacity.

No. You must respect the towing vehicle's approved towing capacity, the hitch rating, trailer limits and the driving-licence rules applying to the combination.

The permitted load depends on the vehicle and coupling. The coupling normally has specified maximum towing and vertical-load ratings that must not be exceeded.

Nose weight is the downward vertical force that a trailer applies to the towing vehicle through the coupling. It must remain within the limits specified for the vehicle, hitch and trailer.

Yes. Tow hitches may be fixed, detachable or retractable. Detachable systems must be correctly installed and securely locked before towing.

Yes, if the hitch and carrier are designed for that purpose. The permitted vertical load and vehicle manufacturer's restrictions must still be respected.

Depending on the trailer's braking system and local law, a safety cable, chain or breakaway system may be required in addition to the main coupling.

Check that the coupling is fully engaged and locked, the safety connection is correctly attached, the electrical connector works and the trailer lights and brakes operate correctly where required.

An emergency vehicle is a vehicle used by an authorised service to respond to emergencies such as collisions, fires, medical incidents or threats to public safety.

Common examples include police vehicles, ambulances, fire trucks and specialised rescue vehicles. Other authorised services may also operate emergency vehicles.

Emergency vehicles may use distinctive markings, flashing warning lights and sirens. Colours and warning systems vary between countries.

Make sufficient space and allow it to pass when required by local law. Slow down or stop where necessary, but avoid sudden or dangerous manoeuvres.

No. Special priority normally depends on the vehicle's legal status, the nature of its mission and the warning signals being used. The exact conditions vary between countries.

Emergency vehicles may be allowed to pass a red light during an urgent mission under specific legal conditions. The driver must still take the precautions required by local law.

Many countries allow authorised emergency vehicles to depart from certain speed restrictions during an urgent response. Such exemptions apply only under the conditions established by local law.

No. Whether a siren must or may be used depends on the urgency of the mission and local traffic law. An emergency-service vehicle may therefore sometimes travel with warning lights but without a siren.

An emergency corridor is a clear passage formed between traffic lanes during congestion so emergency and other authorised vehicles can reach an incident.

You should not use the path created for an emergency vehicle to bypass congestion. Maintain a safe distance and continue to follow the traffic rules that apply to you.

Reduce speed where necessary, leave sufficient space and remain alert. Emergency personnel, patients, equipment or other hazards may be present on or beside the roadway.

In some countries, authorised emergency vehicles may use restricted roads or areas when the nature of their mission requires it. The applicable exemptions depend on local law.

A fire truck is an emergency vehicle used by firefighters to respond to fires, collisions, rescues and other emergencies. It may carry firefighters, water, ladders and specialised rescue equipment.

This depends on the local traffic laws and emergency signals being used. Fire trucks responding to urgent incidents commonly use flashing warning lights and a siren to indicate that other road users must make way.

Make sufficient space and allow it to pass. Slow down or stop where necessary, but avoid sudden manoeuvres that could endanger other road users or block the emergency vehicle.

Do not create another dangerous situation. Make room in a safe and controlled manner and follow any directions given by police, firefighters or other authorised personnel.

Emergency vehicles may be permitted to pass a red light during an urgent response under special legal conditions. The precise rules and precautions required vary between countries.

Many countries allow emergency vehicles to depart from certain speed restrictions while carrying out an urgent mission. Emergency drivers must nevertheless take appropriate precautions and comply with the applicable emergency-driving rules.

Emergency vehicles may sometimes use emergency lanes, restricted lanes or other parts of the road during urgent missions when local law permits it.

You should not follow closely or use the path created for the fire truck to bypass traffic. Maintain a safe distance and continue to obey the normal traffic rules.

No. Warning lights and sirens are generally used according to the urgency of the mission and local law. A fire-service vehicle travelling on a non-urgent assignment may operate without emergency signals.

Reduce speed and remain alert. Firefighters, hoses, equipment or other emergency personnel may be on or near the roadway, and temporary traffic restrictions may be in place.

A siren is a powerful audible warning device used primarily by emergency or priority vehicles to alert other road users of their approach.

Sirens are commonly used by ambulances, fire engines, police vehicles and other authorised emergency vehicles.

Stay alert, determine where the emergency vehicle is approaching from and make room for it to pass safely according to the traffic rules of the country.

A convoy is an organised group of vehicles travelling together along the same route.

No. An ordinary convoy does not automatically have priority over other traffic. Special rules may apply to military convoys, exceptional transports or officially escorted groups.

Yes. Drivers should maintain sufficient distance from the vehicle ahead so they can react safely and so that other traffic can interact with the convoy where permitted.

Emergency vehicle lighting consists of special warning lights fitted to authorised emergency or priority vehicles to increase their visibility and alert other road users.

Depending on the country, they may be used by police vehicles, ambulances, fire engines, rescue vehicles and other authorised emergency services.

Remain alert, determine where the emergency vehicle is coming from and follow the applicable rules for giving way or creating a safe passage. The precise obligation depends on the country's traffic laws and whether an audible warning is also being used.

A tractor is a motor vehicle designed primarily to pull, push, carry or operate machinery and trailers, particularly for agricultural or forestry work.

Tractors are commonly used for agriculture, forestry, towing trailers and operating specialised machinery or equipment.

Tractors may be slow-moving, wide or accompanied by large machinery or trailers. Drivers should leave sufficient space and overtake only when there is enough visibility and room to do so safely.