Panneaux de signalisationNépal
26. Voie ferrée
Une voie ferrée est une paire de rails utilisée pour guider les trams, trains ou autres véhicules ferroviaires. Les rails peuvent longer une route, la traverser ou être intégrés directement à la chaussée, de sorte que véhicules ferroviaires et autres usagers utilisent la même zone.
Les usagers doivent être particulièrement prudents près des voies, car les véhicules ferroviaires ne peuvent pas contourner les obstacles et nécessitent une distance importante pour s’arrêter. Conducteurs, cyclistes et piétons doivent respecter les règles de priorité, feux de circulation, panneaux d’avertissement et règles de franchissement applicables et éviter d’obstruer inutilement les voies.
What is a track?
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.
Can tram tracks run along an ordinary 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.
Who has priority when a road crosses tram tracks?
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.
Can you drive on tram tracks?
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.
Can you stop or park on railway or tram tracks?
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.
Why are tracks dangerous for cyclists and motorcyclists?
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.
Should you follow a tram closely?
No. Maintain sufficient distance so that you can react safely if the tram stops, passengers enter the roadway or traffic conditions change.
Can pedestrians cross tram tracks?
Yes, where crossing is permitted, but pedestrians should carefully check for approaching rail vehicles and obey pedestrian lights and crossing restrictions.
Is a tram track the same as a railway level crossing?
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.
What should you do if traffic stops while you are crossing tracks?
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.
27. Caravane
Une caravane est une remorque tractée conçue pour offrir un hébergement temporaire lors des voyages ou du camping. Elle comporte généralement un espace de couchage et peut également comprendre des installations de cuisine, des sièges, des rangements, un espace de toilette ou des sanitaires.
Lorsqu’ils tractent une caravane, les conducteurs doivent s’assurer qu’elle est correctement attelée, chargée en sécurité et qu’elle respecte les limites de remorquage et de poids autorisées. Une caravane modifie la longueur, le poids, le comportement et la distance d’arrêt de l’ensemble de véhicules.
What is a caravan?
A caravan is a trailer designed to be towed by another vehicle and used as temporary accommodation while travelling or camping.
Is a caravan a trailer?
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.
What should you check before towing a caravan?
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.
28. Remorque
Une remorque est un véhicule conçu pour être tracté par un autre véhicule plutôt que pour se déplacer par ses propres moyens. Les remorques servent à transporter des marchandises, équipements, bateaux, caravanes ou autres charges et peuvent varier fortement en taille et en poids.
Les conducteurs qui tractent une remorque doivent s’assurer qu’elle est correctement attelée, convenablement chargée et adaptée au véhicule tracteur. La remorque peut augmenter la longueur, le poids, la distance d’arrêt et l’espace nécessaire pour tourner de l’ensemble.
What is a trailer?
A trailer is a vehicle designed to be pulled by another vehicle rather than propelled by its own motor.
What can trailers be used for?
Trailers can transport goods, equipment, vehicles, boats or other loads and can also include caravans designed for accommodation.
What should you check before towing a trailer?
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.
29. Attelage
Un attelage, aussi appelé dispositif d’attelage ou accouplement de remorque, est un dispositif fixé à un véhicule afin qu’une remorque, caravane ou autre véhicule tracté puisse y être relié en toute sécurité. Les voitures utilisent couramment une boule d’attelage, tandis que les véhicules plus lourds peuvent utiliser d’autres types d’accouplements mécaniques.
L’attelage et le véhicule tracteur doivent être adaptés à la remorque et aux charges concernées. Les conducteurs doivent respecter la capacité de remorquage homologuée du véhicule, les limites de l’attelage, la masse de la remorque et les éventuelles exigences concernant le permis de conduire, le freinage et la sécurité.
What is a tow hitch?
A tow hitch is a mechanical coupling fitted to a vehicle so that a trailer, caravan or other towable vehicle can be attached.
What is a tow ball?
A tow ball is the ball-shaped part of a common passenger-car towing system onto which the trailer coupling is secured.
Can every car have a tow hitch?
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.
Does fitting a tow hitch automatically mean you may tow any trailer?
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.
What is the maximum load on a tow hitch?
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.
What is nose weight?
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.
Can a tow hitch be removable?
Yes. Tow hitches may be fixed, detachable or retractable. Detachable systems must be correctly installed and securely locked before towing.
Can a tow hitch be used for a bicycle carrier?
Yes, if the hitch and carrier are designed for that purpose. The permitted vertical load and vehicle manufacturer's restrictions must still be respected.
Does a trailer need a secondary safety connection?
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.
What should you check before towing?
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.
30. Sirène
Une sirène est un dispositif sonore puissant utilisé pour attirer l’attention et avertir qu’un véhicule d’urgence ou prioritaire approche. Les sirènes équipent couramment les ambulances, véhicules de pompiers et véhicules de police et peuvent produire des sons alternés ou variables afin d’être rapidement reconnues.
Lorsqu’un véhicule d’urgence approche avec sa sirène en fonctionnement, les usagers doivent rester attentifs, identifier d’où vient le véhicule et lui laisser un passage en toute sécurité. Les règles précises de priorité et d’utilisation des sirènes varient selon les pays.
What is a siren?
A siren is a powerful audible warning device used primarily by emergency or priority vehicles to alert other road users of their approach.
Which vehicles commonly use sirens?
Sirens are commonly used by ambulances, fire engines, police vehicles and other authorised emergency vehicles.
What should you do when you hear an emergency siren?
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.
31. Convoi
Un convoi est un groupe de véhicules circulant ensemble de manière organisée, généralement sur le même itinéraire et vers la même destination. Il peut être composé de véhicules ordinaires, de véhicules militaires, de transports exceptionnels ou de véhicules participant à un déplacement organisé.
Les conducteurs circulant en convoi doivent maintenir une distance de sécurité, respecter les règles de circulation applicables et éviter de gêner les autres usagers. Le fait de faire partie d’un convoi ne confère pas automatiquement une priorité particulière, sauf si des lois spécifiques, une escorte ou des mesures de régulation de la circulation le prévoient.
What is a convoy?
A convoy is an organised group of vehicles travelling together along the same route.
Do vehicles in a convoy automatically have priority?
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.
Should vehicles in a convoy maintain a safe distance?
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.
32. Feux des véhicules d’urgence
Les feux des véhicules d’urgence sont des feux spéciaux clignotants ou rotatifs utilisés sur les véhicules d’urgence ou prioritaires autorisés afin de les rendre très visibles et d’avertir les autres usagers. Les véhicules de police, ambulances, véhicules de pompiers et autres véhicules d’intervention utilisent couramment des feux distinctifs lorsqu’ils répondent à un incident.
La couleur, la signification et l’utilisation autorisée des feux d’urgence varient selon les pays. Lorsque ces feux sont activés, les usagers doivent rester attentifs, identifier le véhicule qui approche et respecter les règles locales concernant la priorité ou la création d’un passage libre.
What is emergency vehicle lighting?
Emergency vehicle lighting consists of special warning lights fitted to authorised emergency or priority vehicles to increase their visibility and alert other road users.
Which vehicles use emergency warning lights?
Depending on the country, they may be used by police vehicles, ambulances, fire engines, rescue vehicles and other authorised emergency services.
What should you do when you see emergency lights?
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.
33. Machines agricoles
Les machines agricoles comprennent les véhicules, machines et équipements conçus pour les travaux agricoles, comme le travail du sol, les semis, la récolte, la tonte, le transport des cultures ou l’utilisation d’outils agricoles. Il peut s’agir de tracteurs, moissonneuses-batteuses, pulvérisateurs automoteurs, faucheuses et autres équipements spécialisés.
Les machines agricoles peuvent être principalement destinées aux champs, mais doivent parfois circuler sur la voie publique. Dans ce cas, les règles applicables concernant l’immatriculation, le permis de conduire, l’éclairage, les dimensions, la vitesse et l’accès aux routes dépendent du type et de la classification juridique de la machine.
What is agricultural machinery?
Agricultural machinery includes vehicles and machines designed to perform farming operations such as cultivating, planting, harvesting, mowing or transporting agricultural materials.
What are examples of agricultural machinery?
Examples include tractors, combine harvesters, self-propelled sprayers, forage harvesters, mowing machines and agricultural trailers.
Is all agricultural machinery legally considered a vehicle?
No. Some agricultural machines are self-propelled vehicles, while others are implements or equipment that must be attached to or towed by another vehicle. Their legal classification depends on their construction and use.
Can agricultural machinery use public roads?
Yes, when legally permitted and suitably equipped. Registration, insurance, lighting, dimensions, speed and driving-licence requirements may apply.
Do you need a special licence to drive agricultural machinery?
This depends on the country and type of machine. Some countries have a dedicated agricultural-vehicle licence, while other vehicles fall under ordinary car or heavy-vehicle licence categories.
Do agricultural machines have special speed limits?
They may. The permitted speed can depend on the machine's construction speed, mass, tyres and road type. Many agricultural machines are designed to travel considerably more slowly than ordinary road vehicles.
Can agricultural machinery use motorways?
Agricultural vehicles are frequently prohibited from motorways or other high-speed roads. The exact restrictions depend on local traffic law.
Why should drivers take care when approaching agricultural machinery?
Agricultural machinery can be slow, wide or unusually long and may turn into fields or farm entrances. Drivers should reduce speed where necessary and overtake only with sufficient visibility and space.
Can agricultural machinery be wider than an ordinary vehicle?
Yes. Some machinery exceeds normal road dimensions. Folding equipment, special markings, permits or other restrictions may apply before it can travel on public roads.
Can agricultural machinery tow trailers or implements?
Yes, when designed and approved to do so. Tractors commonly tow agricultural trailers and implements, subject to applicable mass, braking, coupling and dimensional requirements.
34. Vélo électrique
Un vélo électrique, ou e-bike, est un vélo équipé d’un moteur électrique qui assiste le cycliste pendant le déplacement. La plupart utilisent une assistance au pédalage, ce qui signifie que le moteur fournit une puissance supplémentaire pendant que le cycliste pédale.
La classification juridique d’un vélo électrique dépend notamment de la puissance du moteur, de la vitesse maximale d’assistance et de la capacité éventuelle du moteur à propulser le vélo sans pédalage. Les vélos électriques plus rapides ou plus puissants peuvent être classés comme cyclomoteurs ou comme un autre type de véhicule à moteur et être soumis à des exigences différentes en matière de permis, casque, immatriculation et assurance.
What is an electric bicycle?
An electric bicycle is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor that provides assistance to the rider.
What is pedal assistance?
Pedal assistance means that the electric motor provides power while the rider pedals. The assistance normally decreases or stops when a specified speed is reached.
Is an electric bicycle still a bicycle?
It can be. Electric bicycles that remain within the applicable motor-power and assistance-speed limits are commonly treated as bicycles. Faster or more powerful models may belong to another vehicle category.
How fast can an electric bicycle assist the rider?
The permitted assistance speed depends on the vehicle category and local law. Ordinary pedal-assisted bicycles commonly stop providing motor assistance at approximately 25 km/h.
Can you ride an electric bicycle faster than the assistance limit?
Yes, by your own effort where otherwise permitted. The assistance limit normally determines when the motor stops helping; it does not necessarily prevent the bicycle itself from travelling faster downhill or through pedalling.
Do you need a driving licence for an electric bicycle?
This depends on its legal classification. Ordinary low-power pedal-assisted bicycles commonly require no driving licence, while faster electric bicycles may require a moped or another licence.
Does an electric bicycle need a licence plate?
Ordinary pedal-assisted bicycles generally do not require registration, but high-speed electric bicycles may require registration and a licence plate.
Is a helmet compulsory on an electric bicycle?
Helmet requirements depend on the country and vehicle category. Ordinary e-bikes may follow normal bicycle helmet rules, while faster electric bicycles can have specific compulsory helmet requirements.
Can an electric bicycle use a cycle path?
Ordinary electric bicycles generally follow the same cycle-path rules as conventional bicycles. Different rules can apply to faster or more powerful electric bicycles.
Does an electric bicycle need insurance?
This depends on the vehicle's technical characteristics and local law. Ordinary pedal-assisted bicycles commonly do not require motor-vehicle insurance, while vehicles capable of greater independent motor propulsion may be subject to insurance requirements.
Can you ride an electric bicycle when the battery is empty?
Usually yes. Most electric bicycles can still be pedalled like conventional bicycles when the motor is switched off or the battery is depleted, although their additional weight may make pedalling harder.
Can an electric bicycle carry passengers or goods?
Yes, when the bicycle is designed and legally equipped for them. Passenger seats, cargo areas, child restraints and trailers must satisfy the applicable safety and traffic rules.
35. Véhicule électrique
Un véhicule électrique, ou VE, est un véhicule utilisant un ou plusieurs moteurs électriques pour sa propulsion et stockant l’énergie électrique dans une batterie rechargeable ou un autre système de stockage. Un véhicule entièrement électrique utilise uniquement l’électricité pour se propulser, tandis qu’un hybride rechargeable associe une chaîne de traction électrique à une autre source d’énergie, comme un moteur à combustion.
Les véhicules électriques peuvent être rechargés à partir d’une alimentation électrique externe au moyen d’un point de recharge ou d’une borne de recharge approprié. Les règles concernant le permis de conduire, l’immatriculation, l’assurance, le stationnement et l’accès aux routes dépendent de la catégorie du véhicule et de la réglementation locale, et non simplement de sa propulsion électrique.
What is an electric vehicle?
An electric vehicle is a vehicle that uses one or more electric motors for propulsion and stores electrical energy in a rechargeable battery or another electrical energy-storage system.
What is a fully electric vehicle?
A fully electric or battery-electric vehicle uses only electric motors for propulsion and obtains its driving energy from rechargeable electrical energy storage rather than a combustion engine.
Is a plug-in hybrid an electric vehicle?
A plug-in hybrid uses both electric propulsion and another power source, normally a combustion engine, and its battery can be charged from an external electricity supply. It is therefore different from a fully electric vehicle.
How is an electric vehicle charged?
An electric vehicle is connected to a suitable charging point that supplies electrical energy to its rechargeable battery. Charging power and connector types vary between vehicles and charging stations.
Do all electric vehicles charge at the same speed?
No. Charging speed depends on the vehicle, battery, charger, electrical supply, temperature and current battery condition.
Does an electric vehicle produce exhaust emissions?
A fully electric vehicle produces no combustion-engine exhaust emissions while driving. It can still contribute to non-exhaust emissions through tyres, brakes and road wear.
Is an electric vehicle automatically allowed to park at a charging point?
Not necessarily. Charging spaces can have specific conditions requiring the vehicle to be connected, actively charging, within a time limit or otherwise complying with local parking rules.
Do electric vehicles follow different traffic rules?
Normally no. A car remains subject to the rules for cars, a motorcycle to those for motorcycles and so on. Electric propulsion does not generally change ordinary priority, speed or lane rules.
Do electric vehicles need registration and insurance?
Where an electric vehicle belongs to a vehicle category that normally requires registration and insurance, those requirements continue to apply.
Can an electric vehicle use a low-emission zone?
Fully electric vehicles are commonly permitted in low-emission zones because they have no combustion-engine exhaust emissions, but access rules are determined locally.
Can electric vehicles use motorways?
Yes, when their vehicle category satisfies the normal motorway-access requirements. Electric propulsion by itself neither grants nor prevents motorway access.
Is an electric vehicle the same as an electric bicycle?
No. Electric bicycles belong to separate pedal-cycle categories and are subject to their own power, assistance-speed and traffic rules.
36. Pedelec
Un pedelec, abréviation de cycle électrique à pédalage, est un vélo équipé d’un moteur électrique qui fournit une assistance pendant que le cycliste pédale. Le moteur complète l’effort du cycliste sans remplacer entièrement le pédalage.
La puissance maximale du moteur et la vitesse d’assistance autorisée dépendent de la législation locale. Lorsque le vélo reste dans les limites applicables, il est normalement considéré comme un vélo plutôt que comme un cyclomoteur ou une moto. Les vélos électriques plus rapides sont généralement classés séparément comme speed pedelecs.
What is a pedelec?
A pedelec is an electrically assisted bicycle whose motor provides assistance while the rider pedals.
What does pedal assistance mean?
Pedal assistance means that the electric motor provides additional power when the rider uses the pedals. The assistance stops according to the speed and operating limits applying to the bicycle.
Is a pedelec the same as an electric bicycle?
A pedelec is a type of electric bicycle. The term specifically emphasises that the motor assists the rider while pedalling rather than functioning primarily as an independent means of propulsion.
Is a pedelec the same as a speed pedelec?
No. A speed pedelec can provide assistance at considerably higher speeds and is commonly subject to additional requirements concerning helmets, licences, registration or road use.
Do you have to pedal a pedelec?
Yes. With an ordinary pedelec, the motor is intended to assist the rider's pedalling rather than propel the bicycle independently during normal riding.
Can you ride a pedelec faster than the assistance limit?
Yes, by your own effort where otherwise permitted. The assistance limit determines when the motor stops helping; it does not normally prevent the bicycle itself from travelling faster through pedalling or downhill.
Do you need a driving licence for a pedelec?
Ordinary low-power pedelecs are generally treated as bicycles in jurisdictions that recognise the category and therefore commonly require no driving licence. Local rules should always be checked.
Does a pedelec need a licence plate?
Ordinary pedelecs commonly require no registration plate when they remain legally classified as bicycles. Faster electric cycles may have different requirements.
Can a pedelec use cycle paths?
When legally classified as a bicycle, a pedelec normally follows the same cycle-path rules as conventional bicycles.
Is a helmet compulsory on a pedelec?
This depends on local bicycle law. Some countries require helmets for particular riders or circumstances, while others recommend them without making them compulsory.
Can a pedelec carry passengers?
Yes, where the bicycle is designed and legally equipped to carry them. Appropriate seating, foot protection or child-restraint requirements may apply.
What happens if an electric bicycle is too powerful or too fast to qualify as a pedelec?
It may be classified as a motorised cycle, speed pedelec, moped or another vehicle category, resulting in different technical and traffic requirements.
37. Quadricycle
Un quadricycle est un véhicule à moteur à quatre roues appartenant à une catégorie inférieure ou distincte de celle d’une voiture de tourisme ordinaire. Il peut être conçu pour le transport de passagers, le transport de marchandises ou les loisirs et être propulsé par un moteur à combustion ou électrique.
La législation distingue souvent les quadricycles légers, à puissance et vitesse maximale par construction relativement faibles, des quadricycles plus lourds ou plus puissants. Les exigences concernant le permis de conduire, le casque, l’immatriculation, l’assurance et l’accès aux routes dépendent de la classification juridique du véhicule et de la réglementation locale.
What is a quadricycle?
A quadricycle is a four-wheeled motor vehicle belonging to a specialised vehicle category distinct from an ordinary passenger car.
What is a light quadricycle?
A light quadricycle is a relatively low-powered four-wheel motor vehicle with a restricted maximum design speed. In European vehicle classification, light quadricycles belong to category L6e.
What is a heavy quadricycle?
A heavier or more powerful quadricycle that does not qualify as a light quadricycle can fall within category L7e under European vehicle-classification rules.
Is a quadricycle the same as a car?
No. Although some enclosed quadricycles resemble very small cars, they belong to a different technical and legal vehicle category and can have different licence, power, mass and road-access rules.
Is a quadricycle the same as a quad or ATV?
Not necessarily. The quadricycle category includes several types of four-wheel motor vehicles. Some are open recreational quads, while others are enclosed road-going microcars designed for passengers or goods.
Can a quadricycle be electric?
Yes. Quadricycles can use electric motors, combustion engines or other approved propulsion systems.
Do you need a driving licence for a quadricycle?
Usually yes, but the required licence depends on whether the vehicle is classified as a light or heavier quadricycle and on the country's licensing system.
Does a quadricycle need a licence plate?
Road-going quadricycles commonly require registration and a registration plate. Exact requirements vary between countries.
Must quadricycle occupants wear helmets?
This depends on the vehicle design and local law. Open quadricycles may require helmets, while enclosed vehicles with a passenger compartment and restraint systems can be subject to seat-belt rules instead.
Can a quadricycle carry passengers?
Yes, when it is designed and approved to do so. The number of passengers may not exceed the vehicle's approved seating capacity.
Can a quadricycle use a motorway?
This depends on its vehicle category, construction speed and local motorway-access rules. Low-speed light quadricycles are normally unsuitable for motorway traffic.
Does a quadricycle follow motorcycle or car traffic rules?
This depends on its legal classification. Some light quadricycles are treated similarly to mopeds, while heavier quadricycles may follow many of the ordinary rules applying to cars.
38. Voiturette
Une voiturette est un très petit véhicule à moteur principalement conçu pour les courts trajets et les déplacements urbains. Elle possède généralement un habitacle fermé, quatre roues et une ou deux places, même si les conceptions et classifications juridiques varient.
De nombreuses voiturettes sont juridiquement classées comme quadricycles légers plutôt que comme voitures de tourisme ordinaires. Les modèles plus puissants ou rapides peuvent relever d’une catégorie de quadricycle plus lourd ou de voiture particulière. Le permis requis, l’âge minimum, l’immatriculation, l’assurance, la vitesse maximale et l’accès aux routes dépendent donc de la classification juridique officielle du véhicule.
What is a microcar?
A microcar is a very small enclosed motor vehicle generally intended for short journeys and urban transport.
Is a microcar the same as an ordinary car?
Not necessarily. Many microcars are legally classified as light or heavy quadricycles rather than passenger cars and can therefore have different licence, speed and road-access rules.
Is a microcar the same as a light quadricycle?
Many microcars are light quadricycles, but the terms are not identical. Microcar describes the general vehicle design, while light quadricycle is a specific legal vehicle category.
Can a microcar be electric?
Yes. Microcars may use electric motors, combustion engines or other approved propulsion systems.
How fast can a microcar travel?
This depends on its legal category and construction. Light quadricycles commonly have a substantially lower maximum design speed than ordinary passenger cars.
Do you need a driving licence for a microcar?
Usually yes. The required licence depends on whether the vehicle is classified as a light quadricycle, heavier quadricycle or ordinary passenger car.
Can teenagers drive a microcar?
Some countries allow light quadricycles to be driven at a younger age than ordinary cars, subject to the appropriate licence. Minimum ages vary between countries.
Does a microcar need a licence plate?
Road-going microcars generally require registration and a registration plate according to their vehicle category.
Does a microcar need insurance?
Normally yes. Motor vehicles used on public roads are generally subject to the motor-liability insurance requirements of the country in which they are registered or used.
Must you wear a helmet inside a microcar?
This depends on the vehicle construction and local law. Enclosed quadricycles equipped with seat belts may be treated differently from open quadricycles, where helmet requirements are more common.
Can a microcar use a motorway?
Low-speed microcars classified as light quadricycles are commonly prohibited from motorways. Faster vehicles may have different access rights according to their classification and construction speed.
Is a microcar as protective as a conventional passenger car?
A microcar belongs to a different vehicle category and may be subject to different construction and type-approval requirements from an ordinary passenger car. Drivers should not assume that the two vehicle types provide identical levels of crash protection.
39. Véhicule tout-terrain
Un véhicule tout-terrain (VTT/ATV) est un véhicule à moteur conçu pour circuler sur des surfaces accidentées ou irrégulières ainsi que, dans certains cas, sur des routes ordinaires. Ces véhicules ont généralement quatre roues, des pneus larges et une carrosserie compacte et sont utilisés pour les loisirs, l’agriculture, la sylviculture ou d’autres activités hors route.
La possibilité d’utiliser un véhicule tout-terrain sur la voie publique dépend de sa classification, de son immatriculation, de son équipement et des règles locales de circulation. Certains sont homologués pour la route, tandis que d’autres sont exclusivement destinés à un usage hors route.
What is an all-terrain vehicle?
An all-terrain vehicle is a motor vehicle designed to travel over rough or uneven terrain, commonly using four wheels and wide tyres.
Can an ATV be driven on public roads?
It depends on the country and vehicle. An ATV may need to meet specific registration, equipment, insurance and licensing requirements before it can legally use public roads.
Are all ATVs four-wheeled vehicles?
Not necessarily. The term can cover different types of off-road vehicles, although four-wheeled quads are among the most common forms.
40. Fourgonnette
Une fourgonnette est un véhicule à moteur à carrosserie fermée couramment utilisé pour transporter des marchandises, du matériel ou des passagers. Les fourgonnettes vont des petits véhicules de livraison aux véhicules utilitaires plus grands et peuvent être aménagées avec un espace de chargement, des sièges passagers ou les deux.
Comme les fourgonnettes varient fortement en taille, poids et usage, des règles différentes concernant le permis, la vitesse, le stationnement ou l’accès aux routes peuvent s’appliquer selon leur classification dans chaque pays.
What is a van?
A van is an enclosed motor vehicle commonly designed to transport goods, equipment or passengers.
Are all vans goods vehicles?
No. Many vans are designed primarily for goods transport, while others are configured mainly or partly for carrying passengers.
Do all vans follow the same traffic rules?
Not necessarily. Rules can depend on the van's maximum authorised mass, vehicle category, use and number of passenger seats.
41. Véhicule de loisirs
Un véhicule de loisirs (RV) est un véhicule conçu ou aménagé pour le voyage, les loisirs et l’hébergement temporaire. Le terme peut inclure les camping-cars, fourgons aménagés et, dans un sens plus large, les caravanes ou remorques de camping tractées.
Les véhicules de loisirs peuvent comporter des installations de couchage, des sièges, une cuisine, des rangements et des équipements sanitaires. Leur classification juridique, les exigences de permis, les règles de stationnement ainsi que les dimensions ou poids autorisés varient selon les pays.
What is a recreational vehicle?
A recreational vehicle is a vehicle designed or adapted for travelling and temporary living accommodation.
What types of vehicles are considered recreational vehicles?
The term commonly includes motorhomes and campervans and may also be used more broadly for caravans and camping trailers.
Do recreational vehicles follow the same rules as passenger cars?
Not always. The applicable rules can depend on the vehicle's classification, weight, dimensions and whether it is self-propelled or towed.
42. Scooter
Un scooter est un véhicule motorisé à deux roues généralement caractérisé par un cadre ouvert, une plateforme ou des repose-pieds pour le conducteur et des roues relativement petites. Il peut fonctionner à l’essence ou à l’électricité et aller du cyclomoteur à faible vitesse à des véhicules plus puissants juridiquement classés comme motos.
Les règles applicables à un scooter dépendent principalement de sa vitesse maximale, de sa puissance, de sa cylindrée et de sa catégorie juridique. Les exigences concernant le casque, le permis, l’immatriculation et la position sur la route varient donc selon les pays et les types de scooters.
What is a scooter?
A scooter is a two-wheeled motor vehicle with a characteristic step-through design that may be powered by a combustion engine or electric motor.
Is a scooter a moped or a motorcycle?
It can be either. The legal classification depends on characteristics such as the scooter's maximum design speed, power and engine capacity.
Do all scooters follow the same traffic rules?
No. Different rules may apply according to whether the scooter is legally classified as a moped, motorcycle or another vehicle category.
43. Trikke
Un Trikke est un engin de mobilité personnelle à trois roues utilisé debout, avec une roue à l’avant et deux à l’arrière. L’utilisateur se tient sur des plateformes entre les roues et dirige l’engin au moyen d’un guidon. Selon le modèle, la propulsion peut provenir des mouvements du corps ou d’un moteur électrique.
Les Trikke utilisent un châssis inclinable caractéristique qui permet de tourner et de manœuvrer en déplaçant le poids du corps. Les règles de circulation applicables dépendent de la motorisation et des caractéristiques techniques de l’engin.
What is a Trikke?
A Trikke is a three-wheeled standing personal-mobility vehicle that is steered with handlebars and by leaning or shifting the rider's body.
Can a Trikke have an electric motor?
Yes. Trikke-type vehicles can be human-powered or electrically powered, depending on the model.
Which traffic rules apply to a Trikke?
The applicable rules depend on the vehicle's propulsion, maximum design speed and legal classification. A human-powered and an electric Trikke may therefore be treated differently.
44. Engin de déplacement personnel
Un engin de déplacement personnel, également appelé dispositif de mobilité personnelle, est un appareil compact conçu pour transporter une personne sur des distances relativement courtes. Il peut notamment s’agir de trottinettes, trottinettes électriques, skateboards, engins auto-équilibrés et dispositifs de mobilité.
Ces engins peuvent être propulsés par l’effort de l’utilisateur ou par un moteur électrique. Leur classification juridique, leur vitesse maximale, l’âge minimum d’utilisation et leur place autorisée sur la route varient selon les pays ; les utilisateurs doivent donc respecter les panneaux et réglementations locales.
What is a personal transporter?
A personal transporter is a compact device designed to transport an individual, commonly over relatively short distances.
What are examples of personal transporters?
Examples can include electric scooters, kick scooters, skateboards, self-balancing devices, monowheels and certain mobility devices.
Is an electric scooter a personal transporter?
Yes, commonly. Electric scooters are one of the most widespread forms of motorised personal transporter, although their precise legal classification varies between countries.
Is a personal transporter the same as a bicycle?
No. A bicycle is primarily propelled through pedals or hand cranks. Personal transporters can use other methods of propulsion and may belong to a separate legal category.
Is a personal transporter the same as a moped?
Not necessarily. Low-speed personal mobility devices are often classified separately from mopeds. Devices exceeding specified speed or construction limits may fall into another vehicle category.
Can personal transporters use cycle paths?
This depends on the country and type of device. Motorised personal transporters are often permitted or required to use cycle infrastructure where available.
Can personal transporters use the pavement?
This depends on local law. Motorised devices may be prohibited from ordinary pavements, while people using non-motorised devices at walking speed may sometimes be treated as pedestrians.
Is there a minimum age for using an electric personal transporter?
Some countries impose a minimum riding age for electric scooters and similar motorised devices. The applicable age and exceptions vary between jurisdictions.
Can you carry a passenger on a personal transporter?
Only when the device is specifically designed and legally permitted to carry passengers. Most ordinary electric scooters are designed for one person only.
Do personal transporters need lights and brakes?
Motorised devices may be subject to requirements concerning lights, reflectors, brakes and audible warning devices. The required equipment depends on local traffic and technical regulations.
Is a helmet compulsory on a personal transporter?
This varies between countries and device categories. Even where a helmet is not legally compulsory, wearing an appropriate helmet can provide additional protection in a fall or collision.
Can you modify a personal transporter to make it faster?
A modification that increases the vehicle beyond the legal speed or technical limits may change its classification or make it illegal for use on public roads.
45. Skateboard
Un skateboard est une petite planche montée sur des roues, utilisée debout en se propulsant avec le pied au sol ou grâce à la gravité. Les skateboards sont couramment utilisés pour les loisirs, le sport et les déplacements personnels de courte distance.
Les utilisateurs doivent garder le contrôle, surveiller attentivement les piétons et la circulation et adapter leur vitesse à l’environnement. Les endroits où l’utilisation d’un skateboard est autorisée et les règles applicables varient selon les pays.
What is a skateboard?
A skateboard is a board fitted with wheels that is ridden while standing and normally propelled by pushing against the ground or by gravity.
Can a skateboard be used for transport?
Yes. In addition to recreational and sporting use, skateboards can be used for short-distance personal travel where local traffic rules permit.
Where can skateboard users ride?
This depends on the country and the user's speed. Skateboard users may be treated similarly to pedestrians or cyclists under some traffic-law systems.
46. Segway
Un Segway est un engin électrique de déplacement personnel auto-équilibré qui permet à un utilisateur debout de se déplacer en modifiant la position de son corps tandis que le système électronique maintient l’équilibre. Le Segway Personal Transporter classique possède deux roues et se commande au moyen d’un guidon ou d’un mécanisme de direction.
Les Segways sont utilisés pour le transport personnel, le tourisme, la sécurité et d’autres déplacements de courte distance. Leur statut juridique et les endroits où ils peuvent circuler dépendent des règles nationales concernant les engins de mobilité personnelle.
What is a Segway?
A Segway is a self-balancing electric personal transporter designed to carry a standing rider.
How does a Segway stay balanced?
A Segway uses an electronic self-balancing system that continuously responds to the rider's movements and helps keep the vehicle upright.
Where can you ride a Segway?
This depends on local traffic laws. Segways may be classified as personal mobility devices, bicycles or another vehicle category, which determines whether they may use cycle paths, roads or other areas.
47. Trottinette
Une trottinette est un engin de mobilité personnelle doté d’une plateforme étroite, de deux roues ou plus et d’un guidon. Une trottinette non motorisée est propulsée en poussant le sol avec un pied, tandis qu’une trottinette électrique utilise un moteur électrique.
Les trottinettes sont couramment utilisées pour les loisirs et les déplacements de courte distance. Les endroits où elles peuvent circuler et les règles applicables dépendent de leur motorisation et de leur classification juridique.
What is a kick scooter?
A kick scooter is a personal mobility device with a standing platform, wheels and a handlebar, normally propelled by pushing against the ground with one foot.
Can a kick scooter have an electric motor?
Yes. Electric kick scooters use a motor for propulsion and may be subject to different traffic rules from non-motorised kick scooters.
Where can you ride a kick scooter?
This depends on the country's traffic rules and whether the scooter is motorised. Users may be treated as pedestrians, cyclists or another category of road user.
48. Patins à roulettes
Les patins à roulettes sont des chaussures équipées de roues permettant de se déplacer en patinant sur une surface lisse. Les patins traditionnels ont généralement quatre roues disposées par paires, tandis que les rollers en ligne ont leurs roues alignées.
Les patineurs doivent garder le contrôle, adapter leur vitesse à l’environnement et surveiller attentivement les piétons, cyclistes, véhicules et irrégularités du sol. Les endroits où le patinage est autorisé et les règles applicables varient selon les pays.
What are roller skates?
Roller skates are footwear equipped with wheels that allow the user to move by skating.
What is the difference between roller skates and inline skates?
Traditional roller skates normally have two pairs of wheels, while inline skates have several wheels arranged in a single line.
Where can roller skates be used?
This depends on local traffic rules. Roller skaters may be required to follow pedestrian or cyclist rules depending on the country, location and speed at which they are travelling.
49. Facteur
Un facteur, ou agent postal, est une personne qui collecte, transporte ou distribue des lettres, colis et autres envois postaux. Les agents postaux peuvent se déplacer à pied ou utiliser des vélos, fourgonnettes, motos ou d’autres véhicules pendant leurs tournées.
Lorsqu’ils travaillent près de la route, les agents postaux doivent respecter les règles applicables aux piétons, cyclistes ou conducteurs selon leur mode de déplacement. Les autres usagers doivent être prudents dans les zones où ils peuvent s’arrêter fréquemment, traverser la route ou entrer et sortir d’un véhicule.
What is a mailman?
A mailman, also called a postal worker or mail carrier, is a person who collects or delivers letters, parcels and other postal items.
How do postal workers travel while delivering mail?
Depending on the delivery route, postal workers may travel on foot, by bicycle, motorcycle, van or another delivery vehicle.
Do postal workers have special traffic priority?
Not automatically. Postal workers normally follow the traffic rules applicable to them as pedestrians, cyclists or drivers unless a country's laws provide a specific exemption.
50. Auto-stoppeur
Un auto-stoppeur est une personne qui attend au bord d’une route ou à un autre endroit approprié et demande aux conducteurs de passage de l’emmener gratuitement vers sa destination. L’auto-stop est une forme de transport informel qui peut être autorisée, limitée ou interdite selon les règles nationales et locales.
Les auto-stoppeurs doivent attendre dans un endroit sûr et légalement autorisé, à l’écart de la circulation, et ne pas se placer à un endroit où ils gênent le trafic ou incitent des véhicules à s’arrêter dangereusement.
What is a hitchhiker?
A hitchhiker is a person who asks passing drivers for a ride, usually without using a formal public-transport or taxi service.
Where should a hitchhiker wait?
A hitchhiker should wait in a safe and legally permitted location away from moving traffic, where a driver can stop without creating a danger or obstruction.
Can you hitchhike on a motorway?
Generally, no. Pedestrians are prohibited from motorways in many countries, so hitchhikers should use suitable locations outside the motorway itself, subject to local rules.

Règles de circulation
Népal