Voie ferréePortugal
Règles de circulation
Portugal
49. 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.
