PoliceNetherlands

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Traffic signs

Traffic rules

Netherlands

60. Police

Police are public authorities responsible for enforcing laws, maintaining public safety and managing situations that may affect road traffic. In traffic, police officers may control vehicles, enforce traffic rules, investigate collisions, direct traffic and respond to emergencies.

Road users must follow lawful instructions given by police officers or other authorised traffic-control personnel. Police directions may temporarily override traffic lights, road signs or normal traffic arrangements, depending on local law.

Dutch police vehicles alongside a Royal Marechaussee motorcycle. (Netherlands)
Wikimedia.org • Dickelbers • CC BY-SA

What is the role of police in road traffic?

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.

Must you obey a police officer directing traffic?

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.

What should you do if police signal you to stop?

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.

Can police direct you through a red traffic light?

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.

Can police check your driving documents?

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

Can police carry out alcohol or drug checks?

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

Can police temporarily close a road?

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

What should you do near police controlling an accident scene?

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.

What should you do when a police vehicle approaches with emergency signals?

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.

Can police order a parked vehicle to be moved?

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.

Bus

Ambulance

1 Netherlands 2 Motorway 3 Expressway 4 Residential area 5 Zone 6 Speed limit 7 Footpath 8 Bike path 9 Cycling street 10 Pedestrian zone 11 Slope 12 Bus stop 13 Dead end 14 Stop sign 15 Give way 16 Roundabout 17 Priority road 18 Railway crossing 19 School area 20 Overtaking 21 Crossing animals 22 Roadworks 23 Weight limit 24 Radar speed sign 25 Selective barriers 26 Low-emission zone 27 Priority at the next junction 28 Traffic lights 29 Traffic lights warning 30 Road markings 31 Speed feedback 32 Traffic mirror 33 Emergency telephone 34 Cycling route 35 Parking 36 No parking 37 No stopping 38 Park and ride 39 Kiss and ride 40 Parking disc 41 Disabled parking 42 Traffic management 43 Merging 44 Reversing 45 Uncontrolled crossroad 46 Advisory cycle lane 47 Rush-hour lane 48 Emergency exit 49 Oversize load 50 City limit 51 Parking zone 52 Axle weight limit 53 Licence plate 54 Charging station 55 Dangers 56 Equestrian trail 57 Cyclist 58 Truck 59 Bus 60 Police 61 Ambulance 62 Bicycle parking station 63 Tram lights 64 European emission standard 65 Pothole 66 Path 67 Particulates 68 Air pollution 69 Rush hour 70 Road code 71 Street gutter 72 Cargo bike 73 Forestry vehicle 74 Construction vehicle 75 Semi-trailer truck 76 Trolleybus 77 Speed pedelec 78 Delivery vehicle 79 Idling 80 Tow truck 81 Four-wheel drive 82 No vehicles 83 Bicycle 84 Motorcycle equipment 85 Rail track 86 Caravan 87 Trailer 88 Tow hitch 89 Fire truck 90 Siren 91 Convoy 92 Emergency vehicle lighting 93 Agricultural machinery 94 Electric bicycle 95 Electric vehicle 96 Pedelec 97 Quadricycle 98 Microcar 99 All-terrain vehicle 100 Van ...