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Priority over oncoming trafficCzechia

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Czechia. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Czechia

23. Priority over oncoming traffic

Priority over oncoming traffic means that drivers travelling in one direction have priority through a narrow section of road over drivers approaching from the opposite direction. The rule is normally indicated by a priority sign facing one direction and a corresponding give-way sign facing the other.

Drivers with priority must still approach cautiously and must not force their way through when the passage is blocked or already occupied. The signs regulate priority through the narrow section, not speed, parking or priority at nearby intersections.

Priority over oncoming traffic
Narrow Stádlec Bridge with traffic controlled by priority signs. (Czechia)
Wikimedia.org • ŠJů • CC BY-SA
How is priority over oncoming traffic controlled in Czechia?

Czech signs distinguish Přednost před protijedoucími vozidly, priority over oncoming vehicles, from the opposite give-way instruction. The control concerns the indicated narrow passage.

🔗 e-sbirka.gov.cz • Czechia, Road Traffic Act 361/2000 — sections 4, 18, 20; Decree Annex 2 P7–P8

🔗 e-sbirka.gov.cz • Czechia, Decree 294/2015 — current sign and marking descriptions, annexes 1–10

Can you enter an occupied narrow passage when you have priority in Czechia?

Do not force a conflict. Check the full available width and let a vehicle already committed to the passage clear it when both vehicles cannot pass safely. A priority control does not permit creating danger or disregarding a red signal or authorised instruction.

🔗 e-sbirka.gov.cz • Czechia, Road Traffic Act 361/2000 — sections 4, 18, 20; Decree Annex 2 P7–P8

🔗 e-sbirka.gov.cz • Czechia, Decree 294/2015 — current sign and marking descriptions, annexes 1–10

Does priority through a narrow passage extend to nearby junctions in Czechia?

No. A control releasing your direction or giving priority over opposing traffic concerns that passage. Junction priority, speed limits, crossings and any later restriction must be assessed separately from their own signs and rules.

🔗 e-sbirka.gov.cz • Czechia, Road Traffic Act 361/2000 — sections 4, 18, 20; Decree Annex 2 P7–P8

🔗 e-sbirka.gov.cz • Czechia, Decree 294/2015 — current sign and marking descriptions, annexes 1–10

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