Traffic signsCzechia
Traffic rules
Czechia
126. Hitchhiker
A hitchhiker is a person who waits beside a road or at another suitable location and asks passing drivers for a free ride toward their destination. Hitchhiking is a form of informal transport and is permitted, restricted or prohibited in different locations depending on national and local traffic rules.
Hitchhikers should wait in a safe and legally permitted place away from moving traffic and should not stand where they obstruct traffic or encourage vehicles to stop in a dangerous location.
Wikimedia.org • rawpixel • CC0
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.
127. Toddler
A toddler is a young child who has progressed beyond infancy but still requires close supervision and special protection around roads and vehicles. Toddlers may travel as passengers in cars, public transport, bicycles or other vehicles subject to the safety requirements that apply in each country.
When travelling by car, toddlers should use an appropriate child restraint system suited to their size. Adults should also supervise them carefully near roads, parking areas and moving vehicles.
Wikimedia.org • Hildewagelmans • CC0
How should a toddler travel in a car?
A toddler should travel in an appropriate child restraint system that is suitable for the child's size and correctly installed in the vehicle.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 99–102, child restraints; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 204–210, children; national guidance example
Can a rear-facing toddler seat be placed in front of an active airbag?
No. A rear-facing child restraint should not be placed in front of an active frontal airbag because the airbag can create a serious danger to the child.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 99–102, child restraints; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 204–210, children; national guidance example
128. Child
A child is a young person who requires particular care and protection in road traffic because of their smaller size, limited experience and developing ability to recognise traffic hazards. Children may participate in traffic as pedestrians, cyclists or passengers in vehicles.
Drivers should take extra care when children are present or may reasonably be expected, particularly near schools, playgrounds, residential areas and pedestrian crossings.
Wikimedia.org • Trailnet • CC BY-SA
Why are children particularly vulnerable in traffic?
Children may have more difficulty judging vehicle speed, distance and traffic situations and are less visible to drivers because of their smaller size.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 99–102, child restraints; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 204–210, children; national guidance example
How should children travel in a car?
Children should use an appropriate child restraint or seat belt according to their size, age and the applicable national rules.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 99–102, child restraints; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 204–210, children; national guidance example
129. Disability
Disability refers to a physical, sensory, intellectual or other long-term condition that, together with environmental or accessibility barriers, may affect how a person participates in everyday activities. In road traffic, people with disabilities may participate as pedestrians, drivers, cyclists, passengers or users of mobility devices.
Road systems should take account of accessibility, safe crossings, suitable parking and sufficient time and space for people with different mobility or sensory needs. Drivers should take particular care around road users who may require additional time or space to travel safely.
Wikimedia.org • MarkBuckawicki • CC0
Are people with disabilities separate road users?
A disability does not replace a person’s road-user role: they may be a pedestrian, driver, cyclist or passenger. Additional protections, adaptations or medical/licensing conditions can apply under local law.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 204–218, vulnerable people; national guidance example
How should drivers behave around people with disabilities?
Drivers should remain patient, leave sufficient space and allow enough time for people to move or cross safely, particularly where their mobility or perception may be affected.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 204–218, vulnerable people; national guidance example
130. Motorail
Motorail is a rail service that transports passengers together with their car, motorcycle or other eligible vehicle on the same journey. The passengers normally travel in passenger coaches or sleeping accommodation while their vehicle is carried on dedicated vehicle-transport wagons.
Motorail services are mainly intended for long-distance travel, allowing travellers to avoid driving the entire route while still having their own vehicle available at their destination. Vehicle dimensions, loading procedures and eligible routes depend on the operator.
Wikimedia.org • NAC • CC BY-SA
Which vehicles can be carried on a Motorail train?
Depending on the operator and route, Motorail services may carry cars, motorcycles or other eligible road vehicles. Size and weight restrictions may apply.
🔗 nightjet.com • ÖBB Nightjet, cars and motorcycles on the train; operator-specific conditions
Do passengers remain inside their car on a Motorail train?
On services such as ÖBB Nightjet, passengers must leave the vehicle after loading and use the passenger accommodation. Follow the operator’s instructions; do not assume that every train carrying road vehicles uses the same arrangements.
🔗 nightjet.com • ÖBB Nightjet, cars and motorcycles on the train; operator-specific conditions
131. km/h
km/h means kilometres per hour and is a unit used to measure speed. It expresses how many kilometres a vehicle or other moving object would travel in one hour if it maintained the same speed.
For example, a speed of 50 km/h means travelling at a rate of 50 kilometres per hour. Kilometres per hour are widely used for road speeds and speed limits in countries that use the metric system.
Wikimedia.org • Bluescan sv.wiki • CC0
What does km/h mean?
km/h is the abbreviation for kilometres per hour, a unit used to measure speed.
🔗 nist.gov • NIST, conversion factors for units, Speed conversion factors
Is km/h the same as mph?
No. km/h measures speed in kilometres per hour, while mph measures speed in miles per hour. The two units therefore represent different numerical speeds.
🔗 nist.gov • NIST, conversion factors for units, Speed conversion factors
132. mph
mph means miles per hour and is a unit used to measure speed. It expresses how many miles a vehicle or other moving object would travel in one hour if it maintained the same speed.
For example, a speed of 50 mph means travelling at a rate of 50 miles per hour. One mile per hour is approximately 1.61 km/h, so speeds expressed in mph and km/h have different numerical values.
Wikimedia.org • Greg Gjerdingen • CC BY
What does mph mean?
mph is the abbreviation for miles per hour, a unit used to measure speed.
🔗 nist.gov • NIST, conversion factors for units, Speed conversion factors
Is mph the same as km/h?
No. mph measures speed in miles per hour, while km/h measures speed in kilometres per hour. 1 mph is approximately 1.61 km/h.
🔗 nist.gov • NIST, conversion factors for units, Speed conversion factors
133. Speedometer
A speedometer is an instrument in a vehicle that shows the vehicle's current speed. It is normally displayed on the instrument panel and may use an analogue dial, a digital display or both.
Drivers should use the speedometer to monitor their speed and remain within the applicable speed limit. The displayed unit is usually kilometres per hour or miles per hour, depending on the country and vehicle.
Wikimedia.org • Andreas Schmidt • CC BY-SA
Which units can a speedometer use?
A speedometer may display speed in kilometres per hour (km/h), miles per hour (mph) or both, depending on the vehicle and market.
134. Ride height
Ride height is the height at which a vehicle's body or chassis sits above the road surface. It is determined mainly by the suspension, wheels and tyres and can also change according to the vehicle's load.
Changing the ride height by lowering or raising the suspension can affect ground clearance, wheel alignment, handling and the space available between the vehicle and the road. Vehicle modifications must comply with the technical and approval rules that apply in the country.
Wikimedia.org • mark6mauno • CC BY
Can a vehicle's ride height be changed?
Yes, but suspension changes must remain safe and meet local requirements. Britain’s MOT manual, for example, treats a suspension modification that makes the system inoperative or likely to foul other components as a dangerous defect. Check the applicable modification and inspection rules before altering the vehicle.
🔗 gov.uk • DVSA, suspension inspection and unsafe modifications
🔗 gov.uk • DVLA, current structural vehicle modifications guidance
135. Dirt road
A dirt road is an unpaved road whose surface consists mainly of natural soil, earth or compacted ground rather than asphalt, concrete or an added gravel surface. Dirt roads are commonly found in rural, agricultural, forest and remote areas.
Drivers on dirt roads should adapt their speed to the surface conditions and avoid sudden braking, acceleration or steering. Dust, mud, ruts, potholes and reduced tyre grip can make driving more difficult, especially during or after bad weather.
Wikimedia.org • Игоревич • CC0
How should you drive on a dirt road?
Use a suitable speed, increase following distance when necessary and accelerate, brake and steer smoothly. Extra care may be required when the surface is dusty, muddy, rutted or uneven.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 124–126; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example
136. Driving
Driving is the act of controlling and operating a vehicle or other recognised means of transport in traffic. It involves steering, accelerating, braking, observing the road and interacting safely with other road users.
Safe driving requires the driver to remain in control, follow traffic rules and signals, observe surrounding traffic and adapt to road, weather and visibility conditions.
Wikimedia.org • BP63Vincent • CC BY-SA
Who can legally drive a motor vehicle?
The requirements vary by country and vehicle type. Drivers may need to meet minimum-age, driving-licence, medical-fitness and vehicle-category requirements.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 124–126; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example
137. Start-stop system
A start-stop system is a vehicle system that automatically switches off the engine when the vehicle is stationary and restarts it when the driver is ready to move again. It is commonly used in vehicles with combustion engines to reduce unnecessary engine idling.
The system normally operates automatically when certain conditions are met, such as when the vehicle stops in traffic. Its operation does not replace the driver's responsibility to control the vehicle safely and follow the applicable traffic rules.
Wikimedia.org • Bindydad123 • CC BY-SA
Does the engine always switch off when the vehicle stops?
Not necessarily. The system may keep the engine running when operating conditions do not allow an automatic stop, depending on the vehicle and its systems.
138. Manual transmission
A manual transmission is a vehicle transmission in which the driver selects the gears manually, usually using a gear lever together with a clutch pedal. The driver operates the clutch to disconnect and reconnect the engine from the transmission when starting, stopping or changing gears.
Driving a manual vehicle requires the driver to coordinate the clutch, accelerator and gear selection. Compared with an automatic transmission, gear changes are controlled directly by the driver rather than being performed automatically by the vehicle.
Wikimedia.org • 21C117 • CC BY-SA
What is the difference between a manual and automatic transmission?
With a manual transmission, the driver selects and changes gears. An automatic transmission normally selects the appropriate gears automatically without requiring a conventional clutch pedal.
139. Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission is a vehicle transmission that changes gears automatically without requiring the driver to operate a conventional clutch pedal and manually select each gear. Depending on the design, the driver normally selects positions such as park, reverse, neutral and drive while the transmission manages gear changes.
An automatic transmission can make driving simpler by removing the need to coordinate a clutch pedal and manual gear changes. Automatic transmissions include several different technologies, such as conventional automatics, continuously variable transmissions and dual-clutch systems.
Wikimedia.org • Jhcbs1019 • CC BY-SA
Do all automatic transmissions work in the same way?
No. Automatic transmission controls, operating modes and procedures differ between vehicles. Read the handbook for selecting drive, parking, hill driving and breakdown towing rather than assuming that a familiar selector or procedure works in every model.
140. Throttle
A throttle is a control used to regulate the power produced by an engine or motor. In most cars and trucks, the driver controls the throttle through the accelerator pedal, while motorcycles commonly use a twist grip on the handlebar.
Increasing the throttle generally increases the power available for acceleration, while reducing it decreases the power delivered to the wheels. The exact system differs between combustion-engine, hybrid and electric vehicles.
Wikimedia.org • Santeri Viinamäki • CC BY-SA
Is the throttle the same as the accelerator?
They are closely related. The accelerator is the driver’s control. In a combustion-engine vehicle, it commands the throttle system that regulates engine output; electronic systems can transmit that command through a computer rather than a mechanical linkage.
141. Tachometer
A tachometer is an instrument that shows the rotational speed of an engine or motor, usually measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). It is commonly displayed on the vehicle's instrument panel near the speedometer.
A tachometer helps the driver understand how fast the engine is rotating and can assist with selecting an appropriate gear in vehicles with a manual transmission. It measures engine speed rather than the vehicle's road speed.
Wikimedia.org • メルビル • CC BY-SA
Is a tachometer the same as a speedometer?
No. A tachometer shows engine rotational speed, while a speedometer shows the vehicle's road speed.
142. Steering wheel
A steering wheel is the primary control used by a driver to change the direction of a vehicle. Turning the steering wheel operates the steering system, which changes the angle of the steered wheels and directs the vehicle along the intended path.
The driver should use the steering wheel smoothly and remain in full control of the vehicle. Modern steering systems may include power assistance, electronic controls and buttons for functions such as audio, cruise control or driver information.
Wikimedia.org • Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz • CC BY-SA
Should you make sudden steering movements?
Normally, no. Steering should be smooth and controlled because sudden movements can destabilise the vehicle or create danger for other road users.
🔗 hella.com • HELLA, hydraulic steering pump function and failure effects
143. Power steering
Power steering is a steering system that assists the driver in turning the vehicle's wheels, reducing the physical effort required at the steering wheel. The assistance may be provided hydraulically, electrically or by a combination of systems.
Power steering makes vehicles easier to manoeuvre, particularly at low speeds and while parking. The amount of assistance may vary with vehicle speed so that steering remains stable and responsive during faster driving.
Wikimedia.org • Samf4u • CC BY-SA
What happens if power steering fails?
Steering may become considerably heavier or a warning may appear. The driver should maintain control, reduce speed safely and have the steering system checked as soon as possible.
🔗 hella.com • HELLA, hydraulic steering pump function and failure effects
144. Visual scanning
Visual scanning is the driving technique of continuously observing the road ahead, mirrors, side areas and surrounding traffic to identify hazards and changing traffic situations as early as possible. Effective scanning means moving attention regularly between different parts of the traffic environment rather than concentrating on a single point.
Drivers should look well ahead, check mirrors regularly and observe relevant side areas and blind spots, particularly before changing speed, direction or road position.
Wikimedia.org • B137 • CC BY-SA
Why is scanning important?
Scanning helps drivers identify hazards earlier and gives them more time to adjust speed, position or direction safely.
145. Mirror
A mirror is a device fitted to a vehicle that allows the driver to observe traffic behind and beside the vehicle without turning away from the road ahead for an extended period. Vehicles commonly use an interior rear-view mirror and one or more exterior side mirrors.
Mirrors help drivers monitor surrounding traffic before changing direction, changing lane, overtaking, merging or slowing down. Because mirrors cannot show every area around a vehicle, drivers should also check their blind spots by direct observation where necessary before manoeuvring.
Wikimedia.org • Petar Milošević • CC BY-SA
What is a vehicle mirror?
A vehicle mirror allows the driver to observe traffic and other road users behind or beside the vehicle.
What is the difference between an interior and exterior mirror?
An interior rear-view mirror normally provides a view through the rear window, while exterior side mirrors provide views along the sides and towards the rear of the vehicle.
Can a damaged mirror affect road safety?
Yes. A cracked, loose, missing or badly adjusted mirror can reduce the driver's view of surrounding traffic and should be repaired or replaced when necessary.
146. Fuel
Fuel is a source of energy used to power a vehicle's engine. Common vehicle fuels include petrol, diesel, LPG, CNG and alternative fuels. Electric vehicles use electricity rather than conventional liquid or gaseous fuel.
Drivers should always use a fuel that is compatible with their vehicle. Using the wrong fuel can damage the engine or fuel system, while economical driving and proper vehicle maintenance can reduce fuel consumption.
Wikimedia.org • Santeri Viinamäki • CC BY-SA
Which fuels are commonly used in road vehicles?
Common road-vehicle fuels include petrol, diesel, LPG, CNG and compatible alternative fuels. Battery-electric vehicles store electricity in a traction battery; other electric-drive designs, such as fuel-cell vehicles, obtain their propulsion energy differently.
🔗 energy.gov • US Department of Energy, Internal Combustion Engine Basics
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, BEV components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, fuel-cell electric components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, hybrid components
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, E10 petrol explained; GB fuel-compatibility example
How can a driver reduce fuel consumption?
Smooth acceleration, anticipating traffic, maintaining an appropriate speed, correct tyre pressure, avoiding unnecessary loads and keeping the vehicle properly maintained can help reduce fuel consumption.
🔗 energy.gov • US Department of Energy, Internal Combustion Engine Basics
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, BEV components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, fuel-cell electric components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, hybrid components
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, E10 petrol explained; GB fuel-compatibility example
147. Fuel gauge
A fuel gauge is an instrument on a vehicle's dashboard that indicates approximately how much fuel remains in the fuel tank. It usually displays a scale from empty to full and may also include a low-fuel warning light.
The reading is an estimate and can change slightly when the vehicle is on a slope, accelerating, braking or cornering. Drivers should refuel before the tank becomes completely empty.
Wikimedia.org • Santeri Viinamäki • CC BY-SA
What does a fuel gauge show?
A fuel gauge shows the approximate amount of fuel remaining in the vehicle's tank. Most gauges use a scale between empty and full.
Is a fuel gauge completely accurate?
Treat the fuel gauge as an estimate and follow the handbook’s low-fuel warnings. Do not assume that one indicated level guarantees an exact usable quantity or remaining distance; the display and warning behaviour depend on the vehicle.
148. Petrol
Petrol, also called gasoline, is a liquid fuel commonly used in spark-ignition engines. It is produced mainly from petroleum and may contain renewable components such as ethanol.
Different grades of petrol are identified by their octane rating and ethanol content. Drivers should always use a fuel that meets the specifications recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
Wikimedia.org • WhisperToMe • CC0
What is the difference between E5 and E10 petrol?
E5 and E10 indicate the permitted ethanol content of petrol. E5 contains up to 5% ethanol by volume, while E10 contains up to 10%. Drivers should check whether their vehicle is compatible with the selected fuel.
🔗 energy.gov • US Department of Energy, Internal Combustion Engine Basics
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, BEV components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, fuel-cell electric components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, hybrid components
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, E10 petrol explained; GB fuel-compatibility example
149. Diesel
Diesel is a liquid fuel used in compression-ignition engines. Unlike petrol engines, diesel engines ignite the fuel through the heat produced by compressing air rather than by using spark plugs.
Diesel fuels can contain renewable components such as biodiesel. Drivers should always use a diesel grade that is approved by the vehicle manufacturer, as using an incompatible fuel can damage the engine or fuel system.
Wikimedia.org • Okq8 se • CC BY-SA
Can every diesel vehicle use every type of diesel?
No. Compatibility depends on the vehicle and engine. Drivers should follow the manufacturer's specifications before using fuels such as B10, higher biodiesel blends or synthetic diesel.
🔗 energy.gov • US Department of Energy, Internal Combustion Engine Basics
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, BEV components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, fuel-cell electric components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, hybrid components
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, E10 petrol explained; GB fuel-compatibility example
150. Diesel exhaust fluid
Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) is a liquid used by many modern diesel vehicles with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems to reduce harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. In Europe it is commonly known by the trade name AdBlue.
DEF is not diesel fuel and is stored in a separate tank. It is a solution containing high-purity urea and water that is injected into the exhaust system, where it helps convert nitrogen oxides into less harmful substances.
Wikimedia.org • Lenborje • CC BY-SA
What should you do when the DEF warning appears?
Refill the DEF tank with fluid that meets the specification required by the vehicle manufacturer. Do not ignore the warning, because some vehicles can restrict operation or prevent restarting if the DEF supply becomes empty.
🔗 audi.nl • Audi Nederland, AdBlue refill and empty-tank restart warning