Pedestrian crossingSweden

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Sweden. 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.


15. Pedestrian crossing

A pedestrian crossing is a designated place where pedestrians may cross a road. It is commonly indicated by road markings, traffic signs, signals or a combination of these measures.

Drivers must approach with appropriate caution and give way when required by local law. Pedestrians must also observe approaching traffic and follow any pedestrian signals or instructions from authorised traffic controllers.

Pedestrian crossing
Pedestrian crossing at the junction of Kapplandsgatan and Tunnlandsgatan. (Sweden)
Wikimedia.org • DavidIvar • CC0
When must drivers give way at a pedestrian crossing in Sweden?

At an uncontrolled crossing, drivers must give way to pedestrians on it or just about to enter it. At a controlled crossing, allow pedestrians who entered correctly to finish crossing even if you may proceed. After turning, drive slowly and give way to pedestrians who have correctly entered or are just about to enter.

🔗 data.riksdagen.se • Sweden, Riksdagen, Traffic Ordinance 1998:1276

Are all pedestrian crossings controlled the same way in Sweden?

No. At an uncontrolled crossing, drivers give way to pedestrians on it or just about to enter it. At a crossing controlled by signals or police, pedestrians and drivers follow those instructions, but drivers must still let pedestrians who entered correctly pass; additional duties apply after turning.

🔗 data.riksdagen.se • Sweden, Riksdagen, Traffic Ordinance 1998:1276

May I enter a pedestrian crossing if the road beyond it is blocked in Sweden?

No. Approach so that you will not be forced to stop on the crossing. Wait before it if traffic beyond it would prevent you from clearing it, and continue to protect pedestrians whose path crosses yours.

🔗 data.riksdagen.se • Sweden, Riksdagen, Traffic Ordinance 1998:1276

Must Swedish pedestrians use a nearby pedestrian crossing?

Yes. Without one nearby, cross straight across, preferably at a junction, and without unnecessary delay.

🔗 data.riksdagen.se • Sweden, Trafikförordning 1998:1276, chapter 3 section 40 and chapter 7 sections 3–4, Riksdag statutory text

Must Swedish pedestrians assess approaching vehicles before stepping onto a crossing?

Yes. Consider their distance and speed before entering.

🔗 data.riksdagen.se • Sweden, Trafikförordning 1998:1276, chapter 3 section 40 and chapter 7 sections 3–4, Riksdag statutory text

When may Swedish pedestrians cross away from a pedestrian crossing?

Only when doing so creates no danger or inconvenience for traffic; use a nearby crossing where available.

🔗 data.riksdagen.se • Sweden, Trafikförordning 1998:1276, chapter 3 section 40 and chapter 7 sections 3–4, Riksdag statutory text

May Swedish drivers overtake a moving vehicle just before an uncontrolled pedestrian crossing?

No. The prohibition applies immediately before and on the crossing, including overtaking trams.

🔗 data.riksdagen.se • Sweden, Trafikförordning 1998:1276, chapter 3 section 40 and chapter 7 sections 3–4, Riksdag statutory text

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