Traffic signsAustria

A road surface warning indicates that the surface ahead may be uneven, damaged or otherwise capable of affecting the safe movement of vehicles.

Depending on the country, it may warn of bumps, depressions, potholes, broken pavement, uneven repairs or other surface irregularities.

Reduce speed where necessary, increase your awareness of the road ahead and be prepared for changes in the vehicle's stability or direction.

Not normally. A warning sign alerts drivers to a hazard rather than establishing a numerical speed limit. A separate speed-limit sign may be used where a particular maximum speed is required.

Where slowing is necessary, it is generally safer to reduce speed before reaching the irregular surface rather than braking sharply while travelling over it.

A severe surface irregularity can affect tyre contact, steering, braking and vehicle stability. It can also damage tyres, wheels or suspension components.

Yes. Two-wheeled vehicles can be particularly sensitive to potholes, ridges and other irregularities because these hazards may disturb their balance or alter their direction suddenly.

No. An uneven-road warning concerns the physical condition or shape of the road surface. A slippery-road warning concerns reduced tyre grip caused by the surface or conditions such as water, ice, mud or other substances.

Yes. A supplementary sign may indicate the distance to the hazard or the length of the affected section, depending on the country's traffic-sign system.

Yes, when conditions require it. Additional distance provides more time to react if the vehicle ahead slows suddenly to avoid a pothole or other surface defect.

It provides an emergency stopping area for a vehicle that can no longer slow down adequately with its normal brakes. It is particularly intended for heavy vehicles on long or steep descents.

Depending on its design, the ramp may rise uphill or contain deep gravel, sand or another arresting material that creates resistance and rapidly reduces the vehicle's speed.

No. An escape ramp is an emergency safety facility and should be kept clear for vehicles that have lost effective braking or control.

A city limit marks the boundary of a city, town, village, locality or municipality. On roads, it is often indicated by a place-name or boundary sign.

No. A city-limit or locality sign may simply identify a place or administrative boundary. A legally defined built-up area can use a different sign or definition.

No. In some countries a locality or boundary sign has consequences for traffic rules, while in others it mainly identifies the place. Drivers must follow the traffic signs and rules that apply in that country.

Not always. Some signs indicate an administrative municipal boundary, while others identify a city, town, village or locality without exactly following the municipality's legal boundary.

A city limit identifies the boundary of a named place or administrative area. A built-up area is a traffic-law concept that may affect rules such as default speed limits. The two boundaries can coincide, but they do not have to.

A cyclist crossing is a designated location where cyclists can cross a road or carriageway.

No. Priority rules vary between countries and crossings. Cyclists must follow the applicable traffic signs, signals and priority rules.

They may be indicated by special road markings, traffic signs or traffic lights. Their appearance varies between countries.

A licence plate is a plate displaying the registration identifier assigned to a vehicle. It allows authorities and other authorised systems to identify the vehicle's registration.

Yes. Licence plate, registration plate and number plate are different terms commonly used for the plate displaying a vehicle's official registration number.

Most motor vehicles used on public roads must display one or more registration plates, but requirements differ for motorcycles, trailers, agricultural vehicles and other special vehicle categories.

This depends on the country and vehicle type. Cars commonly require front and rear plates, while motorcycles and certain other vehicles may require only a rear plate.

Yes. A required registration plate must normally remain clearly visible and readable. It should not be hidden by luggage, dirt, accessories or other objects.

Generally no. Changing the characters, colours, dimensions or appearance of an official plate may make it invalid or illegal. Plates and authorised reproductions must comply with local specifications.

Follow the local reporting and replacement procedure. Many countries require the loss or theft to be reported to the police or vehicle-registration authority before a replacement plate can be issued.

A plate must remain legible and compliant with local requirements. If damage prevents it from being read or makes it invalid, it should be replaced according to the local registration procedure.

Some countries allow motorists to request a personalised registration combination. The available characters, formats and prohibited combinations are determined by the registration authority.

This varies between countries. In some systems the plate remains with the vehicle, while in others it remains associated with the registered holder and may be retained or returned when the vehicle is sold.

A charging station is a location where electric vehicles can be connected to an electricity supply to recharge their batteries. A station may contain one or several individual charging points.

Charging stations are intended for vehicles that can be externally charged, such as battery-electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The exact vehicle categories permitted may be indicated by local signs or operator conditions.

Not necessarily. A space beside a charger may be reserved for electric vehicles or vehicles that are charging. Drivers must check the signs and markings before parking there.

Not where the parking space is officially reserved for electric vehicles. An ordinary parking space located near a charger may be different, so the applicable signs and markings determine who may park there.

This depends on the local traffic and parking rules. Many charging spaces require the vehicle to be connected to the charger, even if the vehicle itself is electric.

Charging may be free or subject to payment. The price and payment method are determined by the charging operator, while separate parking charges may also apply.

Yes. Traffic signs, parking regulations or charging conditions may establish a maximum duration to encourage drivers to move their vehicles and make the charger available to others.

Follow the local parking rules and charging conditions. Some locations require vehicles to leave after charging or impose additional fees or time limits when the charging session has ended.

No. A charging station does not allow a driver to ignore no-parking rules, reserved spaces, time limits or other traffic regulations. The vehicle must still be legally parked.

No. Charging stations can provide different charging powers. Some are intended for longer parking periods, while high-power chargers can recharge compatible vehicles much more quickly.

A general danger warning sign indicates that there is a hazard ahead that is not represented by a more specific warning sign in the local traffic-sign system.

It can be used for unusual or uncommon hazards for which no dedicated warning symbol exists. The nature of the danger may be explained by an additional panel, symbol or message.

Look for a supplementary panel, text or symbol accompanying the warning sign. It may describe the hazard or provide information needed to understand the warning.

Increase your attention, observe the road and surroundings carefully and adapt your speed where necessary so that you can respond safely to the hazard.

Not normally. A warning sign alerts road users to danger rather than establishing a numerical speed limit. A separate speed-limit sign may be provided where a specific maximum speed is required.

It is used when the traffic-sign system does not contain a specific symbol that accurately represents the particular hazard.

Yes. A general warning sign may be used for either a temporary or continuing hazard, depending on local signing rules and the circumstances.

Yes. Depending on the country's traffic-sign system, an additional panel may indicate the distance to the hazard, the length of the dangerous section or other useful information.

No. A danger warning sign does not by itself change the priority rules. Drivers must continue to follow traffic lights, priority signs and the normal right-of-way rules.

Not necessarily. The sign normally warns of a hazard ahead of the sign, and the dangerous situation may extend over a section of road. Supplementary information may indicate its location or length.

A cyclist is a person who rides and controls a bicycle.

Yes. Cyclists are road users and must follow the traffic rules, signs and signals that apply to them.

This depends on local rules. Cyclists may be required to use a cycle path or designated cycling facility, while in other situations they may ride on the carriageway.

A bus is a motor vehicle designed to transport a relatively large number of passengers. It may be used for public transport, school transport, private services or other passenger transport.

A bus is commonly designed for frequent passenger boarding and may allow standing passengers, while a coach is generally designed for longer journeys with passengers seated. Exact legal definitions vary between countries.

Yes. Driving a vehicle designed to carry more than a specified number of passengers normally requires a dedicated bus or passenger-vehicle driving licence.

Only when the vehicle is designed and approved to carry standing passengers. Coaches and other vehicles designed exclusively for seated passengers must not be used beyond their approved passenger configuration.

Where seat belts are provided and local law requires their use, passengers must wear them correctly. Urban buses designed for standing passengers may have seating positions or operating conditions that differ from coaches.

Yes, where permitted. Bus lanes are commonly reserved for public transport buses, although local signs may also allow taxis, bicycles or other specified vehicles to use them.

No. Some countries require other drivers to give way to buses leaving designated stops, particularly in urban areas, while others apply the normal merging rules.

Yes. Passengers may be boarding, leaving or crossing the road near the bus. Reduce speed where necessary and watch carefully for pedestrians emerging from behind or in front of the vehicle.

They can. Some countries impose lower maximum speeds on buses than on passenger cars, particularly on high-speed roads. Different limits may apply to buses and coaches.

Yes, normally. Buses that satisfy the applicable construction and access requirements may use motorways, but they must obey any vehicle-specific speed limits, lane restrictions and other local rules.

Police help enforce traffic laws, manage traffic, investigate collisions and respond to dangerous situations. They may also carry out roadside checks and direct road users.

Yes. Lawful directions given by an authorised police officer must be followed. In many countries, those directions take precedence over traffic lights, road signs and normal priority rules.

Slow down, follow the officer's directions and stop at a safe location as instructed. Do not make sudden movements or continue driving unless directed to do so.

Yes, where authorised by local law. A police officer controlling traffic may instruct road users to proceed even when a traffic light or sign would normally require them to stop.

Yes. Police may require drivers to provide documents such as a driving licence, vehicle registration, identification or proof of insurance according to local law.

Yes. Traffic police may conduct legally authorised alcohol and drug checks using procedures such as breath, saliva or other approved tests.

Yes. Roads or lanes may be temporarily closed or traffic diverted because of collisions, emergencies, investigations, public events or other safety concerns.

Reduce speed, remain alert and follow all directions. Do not enter a closed area or interfere with emergency personnel, and leave sufficient space for emergency vehicles.

Follow the local rules for priority vehicles. Drivers generally have to make sufficient space, give way and stop where necessary so that the emergency vehicle can pass safely.

Yes, where local law permits it. Police or another authorised authority may require a vehicle to be moved when it obstructs traffic, creates danger or must be removed for operational reasons.

An ambulance is a specially equipped vehicle used to provide emergency medical assistance and transport sick or injured people.

This depends on the local traffic rules and warning signals being used. Ambulances responding to emergencies commonly use flashing lights and a siren to indicate that other road users must make way.

Remain calm and make sufficient space for it to pass. Slow down or stop where necessary, but avoid sudden or dangerous manoeuvres.

Not necessarily in your exact position. Move or stop in a way that creates a safe passage without blocking an intersection, pedestrian crossing or another part of the road needed by the ambulance.

Emergency vehicles may be allowed to pass a red light during an urgent response under special legal conditions. The precise rules differ between countries, and the ambulance driver must still take appropriate precautions.

Many countries permit emergency vehicles to depart from certain normal speed rules during an urgent mission, subject to safety requirements and national legislation.

Yes, when responding to an emergency and legally permitted to do so. Other road users should create space and keep emergency corridors or access routes clear where required.

You should not use the passage created for an ambulance as a way to bypass congestion. Maintain a safe distance and continue to obey the normal traffic rules.

No. The use of warning lights and sirens depends on the urgency of the mission and local regulations. An ambulance transporting a patient does not necessarily need to use emergency signals throughout the journey.

Reduce speed and remain alert. Medical personnel, patients or other emergency workers may be entering the road, and the ambulance may need to move unexpectedly.

Police traffic signals are gestures, positions or other signals used by authorised officers to regulate or direct traffic.

In many countries, yes. Directions given by an authorised traffic officer normally take precedence over traffic lights, signs and ordinary traffic rules.

Slow down, pay close attention and follow the officer's instruction. Do not continue simply because a traffic light or road sign would normally allow you to proceed.

A European emission standard, or Euro standard, classifies vehicles according to the emissions requirements they had to satisfy when approved for use in the European market.

They are successive generations of European emission requirements. In general, a higher Euro number represents a newer and stricter emissions standard, although the exact limits differ according to vehicle and fuel type.

Depending on the vehicle and standard, limits apply to pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. Newer standards also regulate additional environmental aspects.

No. Euro standards primarily regulate harmful air pollutants from vehicles. Carbon-dioxide emissions and fuel or energy consumption are subject to separate measurements and regulatory requirements.

The Euro standard may appear on the vehicle registration certificate, certificate of conformity or other official vehicle documentation. Its location and format vary between countries.

The date of first registration can provide an indication, but it does not always determine the standard with certainty. The official vehicle documents or type-approval information provide the more reliable classification.

Yes. The applicable emission limits and testing requirements can differ according to the vehicle category, engine and fuel type even when vehicles belong to the same general Euro generation.

Yes. Many low-emission zones use the vehicle's Euro standard together with factors such as fuel type and vehicle category to determine whether it may enter.

Not normally. The official Euro standard is linked to the vehicle's approved emissions classification. Retrofitting emission-control equipment does not necessarily result in a different official Euro classification.

Euro 7 is the latest European emissions framework for road vehicles. It builds on earlier Euro standards and also introduces requirements covering areas such as non-exhaust particle emissions and battery durability.

A pothole is a hole or depression that develops in a road surface when the pavement becomes damaged or deteriorates.

Potholes can develop through a combination of water, temperature changes, traffic loads and deterioration of the road material. Cracks can gradually expand until pieces of the surface break away.

A pothole can cause a vehicle to change direction suddenly, lose stability or suffer tyre, wheel or suspension damage. Deep potholes can present a particularly serious hazard at higher speeds.

Reduce speed when necessary, maintain control of the vehicle and avoid abrupt steering or braking. Only move around the pothole when this can be done safely without endangering other road users.

If possible, reduce your speed before reaching the pothole. Sudden heavy braking or steering while passing over a damaged surface can make the vehicle less stable.

Yes. A pothole can disturb the steering or balance of a motorcycle and may cause the rider to lose control.

Yes. Bicycle wheels can be strongly affected by deep holes or sharp edges, particularly when the cyclist has little time or space to avoid the hazard.

Yes. Severe impacts can damage tyres, wheel rims, suspension components, steering parts or wheel alignment.

No. A sudden evasive movement may create a greater danger by bringing the vehicle into conflict with cyclists, pedestrians, oncoming traffic or vehicles in another lane.

Yes. Depending on the country's traffic-sign system, an uneven-road or general-danger warning sign may be used where poor road conditions create a significant hazard.

Private property is land, buildings or other property owned or controlled by a private person, company or organisation.

Examples include homes, driveways, private roads, company grounds, shopping-centre car parks and privately owned parking facilities.

No. Some private property is restricted to its owner or authorised users, while other privately owned areas are open to customers, visitors or the general public.

No. A private road is only one type of private property. Private property can also include buildings, car parks, yards and other land.

Yes. Ownership and public accessibility are separate issues. A privately owned road can be made available to public traffic and may then be subject to traffic rules that normally apply to public roads.

Not necessarily. The applicable rules depend on the legal status and accessibility of the area. A driveway used only by its owner is different from a privately owned road that is open to general traffic.

Yes, subject to applicable law. Access may be limited using gates, barriers, permits, signs or other conditions established by the owner or operator.

Yes. A privately owned supermarket, shopping-centre or commercial car park can be accessible to customers or the general public even though the land remains privately owned.

This depends on local law and the circumstances. Owners or authorised operators may have procedures for dealing with vehicles that are unlawfully parked or obstruct access.

Enter carefully and follow the applicable rules for joining traffic from a driveway or adjoining property. In many countries, the driver entering the road must give way to road users already using it.

Yes. Owners may use signs to indicate access, parking or safety conditions, although their legal status and enforceability can differ from official road signs installed on public roads.

Because traffic laws often depend on the legal status and accessibility of the place rather than simply on who owns the land.

A path is a relatively narrow route intended primarily for pedestrians and, where permitted, other road users or small vehicles.

Not necessarily. A footpath is specifically intended for pedestrians, while a path may also permit cyclists or other users according to local rules.

No. A cycle path is specifically designated for bicycles and other permitted users. An ordinary path does not automatically have that legal status.

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.

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.

Yes. A narrow path can legally form part of the public-road network even when it is unsuitable for ordinary cars.

No. Paths can be paved, gravelled, compacted or unsurfaced depending on their location and purpose.

Yes. Signs can reserve a path for particular road users or prohibit certain vehicles, regardless of whether they could physically fit on it.

The applicable local priority rules determine who must give way. Special rules often apply when a minor path joins an ordinary road.

Yes, where both are permitted. Faster users should adapt their speed and avoid endangering or unnecessarily obstructing pedestrians.

Yes. At the crossing, users must follow the applicable priority signs, traffic lights, road markings and general right-of-way rules.

No. Its legal classification depends on the definitions and regulations of the country concerned. A narrow route might instead be a footpath, cycle path, private access road or another type of facility.

Particulates, or particulate matter, are very small solid particles or liquid droplets suspended in the air.

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.

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.

Yes. Combustion in diesel engines can produce very small soot particles. Modern diesel vehicles commonly use particulate filters to capture a large proportion of these exhaust particles.

A particulate filter is an exhaust-treatment device designed to trap particulate matter produced by an engine. Diesel particulate filters are commonly known as DPFs.

Yes. Petrol engines can also produce particulate emissions, particularly certain direct-injection engines. Appropriate emission-control systems may therefore include particulate filters.

Fully electric vehicles produce no exhaust particulates from a combustion engine, but particles can still result from tyre wear, road wear and braking.

Vehicle-emission regulation is increasingly addressing non-exhaust emissions. The European Euro 7 framework includes requirements concerning brake-particle emissions and tyre abrasion.

No. Particulate matter consists of tiny airborne particles, while carbon dioxide is a gas. They are different types of vehicle emissions and are regulated for different environmental reasons.

Measures include effective particulate filters, cleaner vehicle technologies, correctly maintained emission-control systems and reductions in brake, tyre and road-wear emissions.

Air pollution is contamination of the air by gases, particles or other substances that can adversely affect human health, the environment or ecosystems.

Vehicles produce pollutants through fuel combustion, exhaust systems, brake wear, tyre wear and road-surface interaction. Moving traffic can also resuspend dust already present on the road.

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.

Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is an air pollutant associated particularly with combustion processes and road traffic. High concentrations are commonly found near busy roads and densely trafficked urban areas.

Particulate matter consists of tiny solid particles or liquid droplets suspended in the air. Road traffic can produce particles from exhaust, brakes, tyres and road surfaces.

No. Carbon dioxide is primarily regulated as a greenhouse gas because of its contribution to climate change. Local air-quality pollution generally focuses on substances such as nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter, ozone and other pollutants that directly affect air quality and health.

Fully electric vehicles produce no combustion-engine exhaust emissions while driving, but they can still contribute to non-exhaust particulate emissions through tyres, brakes and road wear.

Yes. Concentrations of traffic-related pollutants can be higher close to heavily trafficked roads because many emissions occur close to ground level and near where people live and travel.

A low-emission zone is an area where access by more polluting vehicles is restricted in order to reduce traffic-related air pollution. Access criteria may depend on factors such as fuel type, vehicle category and emission standard.

Measures include cleaner vehicles, stricter emission standards, effective emission-control equipment, low-emission zones, public transport, cycling and walking, as well as traffic-management measures that reduce unnecessary congestion and emissions.

Rush hour is a period when unusually large numbers of people travel at the same time, resulting in increased traffic and often congestion.

Rush hour commonly occurs during the morning and late afternoon or evening on working days, but the exact times vary according to the city, road and local travel patterns.

No. The term does not mean that congestion lasts exactly one hour. In busy urban areas, peak traffic conditions may continue for several hours.

Congestion develops when traffic demand approaches or exceeds the available road capacity. Intersections, merging traffic, collisions, roadworks and weather can make the congestion worse.

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.

Unnecessary lane changes can create additional conflicts and may not significantly reduce journey time. Choose an appropriate lane, observe surrounding traffic and change lane only when it can be done safely.

Yes. Roads equipped with variable traffic management may display lower speed limits during congestion. Drivers must follow the speed limit currently indicated.

A rush-hour lane is an additional traffic lane that can be opened during busy periods to increase road capacity. It may use a lane or shoulder that is closed to normal traffic at other times.

No. Such a lane may only be used when traffic signals or signs indicate that it is open. Never assume that congestion alone permits its use.

Check current traffic conditions and expected journey times, allow additional travel time and consider an alternative route, departure time or mode of transport where appropriate.

A road code is the body of traffic rules and regulations governing how road users must behave on public roads.

A road code can regulate subjects such as priority, speed, overtaking, turning, parking, traffic signals, road signs and road markings, as well as the responsibilities of different road users.

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.

A street gutter is a drainage channel along the edge of a road that collects rainwater and directs it toward drains or another drainage system.

Normally, no. A gutter is primarily part of the road's drainage system and is not intended to function as a normal traffic lane.

Gutters may contain water, leaves, debris, drain covers or uneven surfaces, which can reduce grip or make cycling less stable.

A cargo bike is a bicycle designed to carry goods, children or larger loads than a conventional bicycle.

Common designs include two-wheel box bikes, three-wheel cargo bikes and longtail bicycles with an extended rear carrying area.

Yes. Many cargo bikes use electric pedal assistance to make it easier to move heavier loads or travel longer distances.

It can be. If the electrical assistance remains within the applicable power and assistance-speed limits, the vehicle may remain legally classified as a bicycle. More powerful or faster models may belong to another category.

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.

Yes. Transporting goods is one of its main purposes. Loads must be securely positioned and must not make the bicycle unstable, obstruct the rider's view or exceed applicable dimensional or weight limits.

This depends on its dimensions and legal classification. Ordinary-sized cargo bicycles generally follow bicycle rules, while unusually wide models may be excluded from certain cycle facilities.

Normally not when it remains legally classified as an ordinary bicycle or electrically assisted bicycle. Faster or more powerful vehicles may be subject to different licensing requirements.

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.

Yes. Additional weight can affect acceleration, braking, steering and stability. Reduce speed where necessary, allow greater stopping distance and take particular care when turning.

Yes, where permitted. The bicycle, trailer and total load must comply with the applicable dimensional, mass, braking and passenger-transport requirements.

Cargo bikes can be longer, wider and heavier than ordinary bicycles and may need additional space when turning or stopping. Drivers should leave sufficient passing distance and avoid cutting across their path.

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.

No. Forestry vehicles can include tractors, specialised self-propelled machines, trailers and other equipment. Their legal classification depends on their design and use.

A forestry tractor is a powered vehicle primarily designed to pull, push, carry or operate equipment or trailers used for forestry work.

Yes, when legally permitted and properly equipped. Registration, insurance, lighting, dimensions, speed and driving-licence requirements may apply before a forestry vehicle can use public roads.

This depends on the vehicle classification, mass and country. Some countries have special agricultural or forestry vehicle licence categories, while other machines require ordinary car or heavy-vehicle licences.

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.

This depends on the country and vehicle classification. Agricultural and forestry vehicles are often restricted from high-speed roads, particularly when their construction speed is unsuitable for motorway traffic.

Forestry vehicles can be large, slow, wide or equipped with projecting machinery. Reduce speed where necessary and overtake only when there is sufficient visibility and space.

Yes, where the vehicle is designed and approved to do so. Forestry tractors commonly tow trailers carrying timber, machinery or other forestry materials.

Some machinery or loads may make a forestry vehicle unusually wide or long. Where legal limits are exceeded, special markings, lighting, permits or escort arrangements may be required under local law.