Traffic signsSouth Africa

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of South Africa. 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.


51. Siren

A siren is a loud warning device used to attract attention and warn people that an emergency or priority vehicle is approaching. Sirens are commonly fitted to vehicles such as ambulances, fire engines and police vehicles and may produce alternating or changing tones so they can be recognised quickly.

When an emergency vehicle approaches with its siren operating, road users should remain alert, identify where the vehicle is coming from and safely make room for it to pass. The exact priority rules and permitted use of sirens vary between countries.

Siren
Fire engine truck with warning siren and emergency lights.
Wikimedia.org • David R. Tribble • CC BY-SA
What should you do when you hear an emergency siren?

Stay alert, determine where the emergency vehicle is approaching from and make room for it to pass safely according to the traffic rules of the country.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Article 34, priority vehicles and national exemptions; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 219, emergency and incident support vehicles; national guidance example

52. Convoy

A convoy is a group of vehicles travelling together as an organised group, usually following the same route and destination. Convoys may consist of ordinary vehicles, military vehicles, exceptional transports or vehicles participating in an organised journey.

Drivers travelling in a convoy should maintain a safe distance, follow the applicable traffic rules and avoid obstructing other traffic. Being part of a convoy does not automatically give vehicles special priority unless specific laws, escorts or traffic-control measures apply.

Convoy
A military convoy transporting 80 vehicles and equipment. (Hawaï, United States)
Wikimedia.org • The U.S. Army • CC0
Should vehicles in a convoy maintain a safe distance?

Yes. Drivers should maintain sufficient distance from the vehicle ahead so they can react safely and so that other traffic can interact with the convoy where permitted.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Article 13(5)–(6), following distance and convoy gaps; international framework subject to national law

53. Emergency vehicle lighting

Emergency vehicle lighting consists of special flashing or rotating lights used on authorised emergency or priority vehicles to make them highly visible and warn other road users. Police vehicles, ambulances, fire engines and other authorised response vehicles commonly use distinctive warning lights when responding to incidents.

The colour, meaning and permitted use of emergency lights vary between countries. When emergency lighting is active, road users should remain alert, identify the approaching vehicle and follow the local rules for giving way or creating a clear passage.

Emergency vehicle lighting
Emergency vehicle with warning lights during a disaster-response exercise. (Oberwart, Austria)
Wikimedia.org • BFV Radkersburg • CC BY-SA
What should you do when you see emergency lights?

Remain alert, determine where the emergency vehicle is coming from and follow the applicable rules for giving way or creating a safe passage. The precise obligation depends on the country's traffic laws and whether an audible warning is also being used.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Article 34, priority vehicles and national exemptions; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 219, emergency and incident support vehicles; national guidance example

54. Agricultural machinery

Agricultural machinery includes vehicles, machines and equipment designed for farming and agricultural work, such as cultivating soil, planting, harvesting, mowing, transporting crops or operating agricultural implements. Examples include tractors, combine harvesters, self-propelled sprayers, mowing machines and other specialised equipment.

Agricultural machinery may be designed mainly for use on fields but may also need to travel on public roads. When using public roads, the applicable registration, driving-licence, lighting, dimensions, speed and road-access rules depend on the type and legal classification of the machine.

Agricultural machinery
John Deere tractor, Case IH combine harvester and New Holland forage harvester at the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center. (United States)
Wikimedia.org • Bob Nichols • CC0
What is agricultural machinery?

Agricultural machinery includes vehicles and machines designed to perform farming operations such as cultivating, planting, harvesting, mowing or transporting agricultural materials.

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Technical Requirements Decree of 15 March 1968, Article 1, vehicle/machinery classifications; national example

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Driving Licence Decree of 23 March 1998, Article 2, vehicle categories including G; national example

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 1, 13 and 30; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 124–126, vehicle-specific speeds; national guidance example

What are examples of agricultural machinery?

Examples include tractors, combine harvesters, self-propelled sprayers, forage harvesters, mowing machines and agricultural trailers.

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Technical Requirements Decree of 15 March 1968, Article 1, vehicle/machinery classifications; national example

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Driving Licence Decree of 23 March 1998, Article 2, vehicle categories including G; national example

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 1, 13 and 30; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 124–126, vehicle-specific speeds; national guidance example

Do agricultural machines have special speed limits?

They may. The permitted speed can depend on the machine's construction speed, mass, tyres and road type. Many agricultural machines are designed to travel considerably more slowly than ordinary road vehicles.

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Technical Requirements Decree of 15 March 1968, Article 1, vehicle/machinery classifications; national example

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Driving Licence Decree of 23 March 1998, Article 2, vehicle categories including G; national example

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 1, 13 and 30; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 124–126, vehicle-specific speeds; national guidance example

55. Electric bicycle

An electric bicycle, or e-bike, is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor that assists the rider while travelling. Most electric bicycles use pedal assistance, meaning that the motor provides additional power while the rider pedals.

The legal classification of an electric bicycle depends on factors such as the motor power, maximum assistance speed and whether the motor can propel the bicycle without pedalling. Faster or more powerful electric bicycles may be classified as mopeds or another type of motor vehicle and can therefore be subject to different licence, helmet, registration and insurance requirements.

Electric bicycle
Sigo electric cargo-bike sharing station on Wönnichstraße. (Berlin, Germany)
Wikimedia.org • Singlespeedfahrer • CC0
What is an electric bicycle?

An electric bicycle is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor that provides assistance to the rider.

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Royal Decree of 1 December 1975, Articles 2.15–2.17, 36 and 43; cycle and speed-pedelec classification; Belgian example

🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, Riding an electric bike: the rules; GB EAPC example

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 59–82, cycling; national guidance example

🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule

🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example

Can you ride an electric bicycle faster than the assistance limit?

Yes, by your own effort where otherwise permitted. The assistance limit normally determines when the motor stops helping; it does not necessarily prevent the bicycle itself from travelling faster downhill or through pedalling.

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Royal Decree of 1 December 1975, Articles 2.15–2.17, 36 and 43; cycle and speed-pedelec classification; Belgian example

🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, Riding an electric bike: the rules; GB EAPC example

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 59–82, cycling; national guidance example

🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule

🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example

Is a helmet compulsory on an electric bicycle?

Helmet requirements depend on the country and vehicle category. Ordinary e-bikes may follow normal bicycle helmet rules, while faster electric bicycles can have specific compulsory helmet requirements.

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Royal Decree of 1 December 1975, Articles 2.15–2.17, 36 and 43; cycle and speed-pedelec classification; Belgian example

🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, Riding an electric bike: the rules; GB EAPC example

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 59–82, cycling; national guidance example

🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule

🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example

56. Electric vehicle

An electric vehicle, or EV, is a vehicle that uses one or more electric motors for propulsion and stores electrical energy in a rechargeable battery or another electrical energy-storage system. A fully electric vehicle uses only electrical energy for propulsion, while a plug-in hybrid combines an electric drivetrain with another power source such as a combustion engine.

Electric vehicles can be recharged from an external electricity supply using a suitable charging point or charging station. Their driving-licence, registration, insurance, parking and road-access rules depend on the vehicle category and local regulations rather than simply on the fact that they use electric power.

Electric vehicle
BMW i3 charging from a home power outlet. (Tres Ríos, Costa Rica)
Wikimedia.org • Mariordo • CC BY-SA
What is an electric vehicle?

An electric vehicle uses one or more electric motors for propulsion. Depending on its design, electricity may come from a rechargeable battery, a fuel-cell system or an external supply. Battery-electric vehicles are one type of electric vehicle, not the only type.

🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, all-electric vehicle components

🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, fuel-cell electric vehicle components

🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, hybrid-electric vehicle components

Do all electric vehicles charge at the same speed?

No. The charging rate depends on the vehicle and charging equipment, the available electrical supply and operating conditions. Follow the vehicle and charger specifications; a charger’s advertised maximum does not mean every connected vehicle can receive that rate.

🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, all-electric vehicle components

🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, fuel-cell electric vehicle components

🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, hybrid-electric vehicle components

Is an electric vehicle automatically allowed to park at a charging point?

Not necessarily. Charging spaces can have specific conditions requiring the vehicle to be connected, actively charging, within a time limit or otherwise complying with local parking rules.

🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, all-electric vehicle components

🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, fuel-cell electric vehicle components

🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, hybrid-electric vehicle components

57. Pedelec

A pedelec, short for pedal electric cycle, is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor that provides assistance while the rider pedals. The motor supplements the rider's effort rather than replacing pedalling entirely.

The maximum motor power and assistance speed permitted for a pedelec depend on local law. When the bicycle remains within the applicable limits, it is normally treated as a bicycle rather than a moped or motorcycle. Faster electrically assisted bicycles are commonly classified separately as speed pedelecs.

Pedelec
Pedelecs during an e-mobility dealer training event.
Wikimedia.org • holding graz • CC BY
What is a pedelec?

A pedelec is an electrically assisted bicycle whose motor provides assistance while the rider pedals.

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Royal Decree of 1 December 1975, Articles 2.15–2.17, 36 and 43; cycle and speed-pedelec classification; Belgian example

🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, Riding an electric bike: the rules; GB EAPC example

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 59–82, cycling; national guidance example

🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule

🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example

Is a pedelec the same as a speed pedelec?

No. A speed pedelec can provide assistance at considerably higher speeds and is commonly subject to additional requirements concerning helmets, licences, registration or road use.

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Royal Decree of 1 December 1975, Articles 2.15–2.17, 36 and 43; cycle and speed-pedelec classification; Belgian example

🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, Riding an electric bike: the rules; GB EAPC example

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 59–82, cycling; national guidance example

🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule

🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example

Is a helmet compulsory on a pedelec?

This depends on local bicycle law. Some countries require helmets for particular riders or circumstances, while others recommend them without making them compulsory.

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Royal Decree of 1 December 1975, Articles 2.15–2.17, 36 and 43; cycle and speed-pedelec classification; Belgian example

🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, Riding an electric bike: the rules; GB EAPC example

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 59–82, cycling; national guidance example

🔗 nsw.gov.au • NSW Government, bicycle safety equipment; NSW helmet rule

🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, mandatory bicycle equipment; child helmet example

58. Quadricycle

A quadricycle is a motor vehicle with four wheels that belongs to a vehicle category below or separate from an ordinary passenger car. Quadricycles may be designed for passenger transport, goods transport or recreational use and can be powered by a combustion engine or electric motor.

Traffic law commonly distinguishes between light quadricycles, which have relatively low power and maximum design speed, and heavier or more powerful quadricycles. Driving-licence, helmet, registration, insurance and road-access requirements depend on the vehicle's legal classification and the local traffic regulations.

Quadricycle
Quadricycle International Q-Cycle 6 at the Old Port of Montreal. (Montreal, Quebec, Canada)
Wikimedia.org • Ahunt • CC0
What is a quadricycle?

A quadricycle is a four-wheeled motor vehicle belonging to a specialised vehicle category distinct from an ordinary passenger car.

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Driving Licence Decree of 23 March 1998, Articles 1–2, light and other quadricycles; national example

🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, StVO section 21a(2), helmets and seat-belt exception

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Royal Decree of 1 December 1975, Article 36, helmet/occupant-restraint conditions; Belgian example

What is a light quadricycle?

A light quadricycle is a relatively low-powered four-wheel motor vehicle with a restricted maximum design speed. In European vehicle classification, light quadricycles belong to category L6e.

🔗 gov.uk • DVSA, MOT light-quadricycle definition

Must quadricycle occupants wear helmets?

This depends on the vehicle design and local law. Open quadricycles may require helmets, while enclosed vehicles with a passenger compartment and restraint systems can be subject to seat-belt rules instead.

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Driving Licence Decree of 23 March 1998, Articles 1–2, light and other quadricycles; national example

🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, StVO section 21a(2), helmets and seat-belt exception

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Royal Decree of 1 December 1975, Article 36, helmet/occupant-restraint conditions; Belgian example

59. Microcar

A microcar is a very small motor vehicle designed mainly for short-distance and urban travel. It usually has an enclosed passenger compartment, four wheels and seating for one or two people, although designs and legal classifications vary.

Many microcars are legally classified as light quadricycles rather than ordinary passenger cars. More powerful or faster models may fall into a heavier quadricycle or passenger-car category. The applicable driving licence, minimum age, registration, insurance, maximum speed and road access therefore depend on the vehicle's official legal classification.

Microcar
Renault Twizy electric microcar.
Wikimedia.org • Patrik Tschudin • CC BY
What is a microcar?

A microcar is a very small motor vehicle, usually intended for short urban journeys. An enclosed urban vehicle such as the Citroën Ami is an example. The descriptive term does not by itself determine the vehicle’s legal class or the licence required.

🔗 citroen.co.uk • Citroën, Ami light-quadricycle and urban-vehicle description

Is a microcar the same as an ordinary car?

Microcar is a descriptive name, not one universal licence category. A small enclosed vehicle may be approved as a light or other quadricycle rather than as an ordinary passenger car. Check its official category before assuming which licence, speed or access rules apply.

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Driving Licence Decree of 23 March 1998, Articles 1–2, light and other quadricycles; national example

🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, StVO section 21a(2), helmets and seat-belt exception

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Royal Decree of 1 December 1975, Article 36, helmet/occupant-restraint conditions; Belgian example

Must you wear a helmet inside a microcar?

This depends on the vehicle construction and local law. Enclosed quadricycles equipped with seat belts may be treated differently from open quadricycles, where helmet requirements are more common.

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Driving Licence Decree of 23 March 1998, Articles 1–2, light and other quadricycles; national example

🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, StVO section 21a(2), helmets and seat-belt exception

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Royal Decree of 1 December 1975, Article 36, helmet/occupant-restraint conditions; Belgian example

60. All-terrain vehicle

An all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is a motor vehicle designed to travel over rough or uneven surfaces as well as, in some cases, ordinary roads. ATVs commonly have four wheels, wide tyres and a compact body and are used for recreation, agriculture, forestry or other off-road activities.

Whether an ATV may be used on public roads depends on its vehicle classification, registration, equipment and local traffic laws. Some ATVs are approved for road use, while others are intended exclusively for off-road use.

All-terrain vehicle
Dinli 450 quad being ridden through a bend on a paved road.
Wikimedia.org • ATVist • CC BY
Are all ATVs four-wheeled vehicles?

No. Three-wheeled ATVs have also existed: the US Consumer Product Safety Commission’s ATV research describes both three- and four-wheeled vehicles. The term does not by itself establish a vehicle’s current road-use approval.

🔗 cpsc.gov • US CPSC, ATV exposure survey three/four-wheel definition

61. Van

A van is a motor vehicle with an enclosed body that is commonly used to transport goods, equipment or passengers. Vans range from small delivery vehicles to larger commercial vehicles and may be fitted with cargo space, passenger seats or a combination of both.

Because vans vary considerably in size, weight and purpose, different driving-licence, speed, parking or road-access rules may apply depending on how the vehicle is classified in each country.

Van
Second-generation Mercedes-Benz Sprinter passenger van. (Netherlands)
Wikimedia.org • Jordy Schaap • CC BY-SA

62. Recreational vehicle

A recreational vehicle (RV) is a vehicle designed or adapted for travel, recreation and temporary living accommodation. The term can include motorhomes, campervans and, in broader usage, towable caravans or camping trailers.

Recreational vehicles may contain sleeping, seating, cooking, storage and sanitary facilities. Their legal classification, driving-licence requirements, parking rules and permitted dimensions or weights vary between countries.

Recreational vehicle
Dodge-based Winnebago motorhome. (Munich, Germany)
Wikimedia.org • High Contrast • CC BY

63. Scooter

A scooter is a two-wheeled motor vehicle typically characterised by a step-through frame, a platform or footrests for the rider and relatively small wheels. Scooters may use petrol or electric propulsion and can range from low-speed mopeds to more powerful vehicles legally classified as motorcycles.

The traffic rules applying to a scooter depend mainly on its maximum speed, power, engine capacity and legal vehicle category. Helmet, driving-licence, registration and road-position requirements therefore vary between countries and between different types of scooter.

Scooter
2003 Aprilia scooter. (Gjøvik, Norway)
Wikimedia.org • Øyvind Holmstad • CC BY-SA

64. Trikke

A Trikke is a three-wheeled standing personal-mobility vehicle with one front wheel and two rear wheels. The rider stands on platforms between the wheels and steers with handlebars. Depending on the model, propulsion may come from the rider's body movement or from an electric motor.

Trikke vehicles use a distinctive leaning or cambering frame that allows the rider to turn and manoeuvre by shifting body weight. The traffic rules that apply depend on whether the vehicle is motorised and on its technical characteristics.

Trikke
Person riding a Trikke in Union Square. (New York City, United States)
Wikimedia.org • FaceMePLS • CC BY

65. Personal mobility device

A personal mobility device, also called a personal transporter, is a compact device designed to transport one person over relatively short distances. Examples can include kick scooters, electric scooters, skateboards, self-balancing devices and mobility devices.

Personal transporters may be powered by the user's own effort or by an electric motor. Their legal classification, maximum speed, minimum riding age and permitted place on the road vary between countries, so users must follow the local traffic signs and regulations.

Personal mobility device
A segway. (Nevada, United States)
Wikimedia.org • Maurizio Pesce • CC BY
What is a personal transporter?

A personal transporter is a compact device designed to transport an individual, commonly over relatively short distances.

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Royal Decree of 1 December 1975, Articles 2.15, 7bis and 9, cycles, mobility devices and positioning; Belgian example

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 1, 8 and 20; international framework subject to national law

🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, powered/unpowered personal devices; French example

Is there a minimum age for using an electric personal transporter?

Some countries impose a minimum riding age for electric scooters and similar motorised devices. The applicable age and exceptions vary between jurisdictions.

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Royal Decree of 1 December 1975, Articles 2.15, 7bis and 9, cycles, mobility devices and positioning; Belgian example

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 1, 8 and 20; international framework subject to national law

🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, powered/unpowered personal devices; French example

Is a helmet compulsory on a personal transporter?

This varies between countries and device categories. Even where a helmet is not legally compulsory, wearing an appropriate helmet can provide additional protection in a fall or collision.

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Royal Decree of 1 December 1975, Articles 2.15, 7bis and 9, cycles, mobility devices and positioning; Belgian example

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 1, 8 and 20; international framework subject to national law

🔗 service-public.gouv.fr • French Service Public, powered/unpowered personal devices; French example

66. Skateboard

A skateboard is a small board mounted on wheels that is ridden by standing on the deck and moving by pushing against the ground or using gravity. Skateboards are commonly used for recreation, sport and short-distance personal transport.

Skateboard users should maintain control, watch carefully for pedestrians and traffic and adapt their speed to the surrounding environment. Where skateboards may be used and which traffic rules apply vary between countries.

Skateboard
Child riding a small skateboard. (Mallorca, Spain)
Wikimedia.org • David Martín • CC BY-SA

67. Segway

A Segway is a self-balancing electric personal transporter that allows a standing rider to move by shifting their body position while the vehicle's electronic balancing system maintains stability. The classic Segway Personal Transporter has two wheels and is controlled using a handlebar or steering mechanism.

Segways are used for personal transport, tourism, security and other short-distance travel. Their legal status and where they may be ridden depend on national traffic rules governing personal mobility devices.

Segway
Police officer riding a Segway.
Wikimedia.org • Chris Brown • CC BY

68. Kick scooter

A kick scooter is a personal mobility device with a narrow platform, two or more wheels and a handlebar. A non-motorised kick scooter is propelled by pushing against the ground with one foot, while an electric kick scooter uses an electric motor for propulsion.

Kick scooters are commonly used for recreation and short-distance travel. Where they may be ridden and which traffic rules apply depend on whether the scooter is motorised and on its legal classification.

Kick scooter
Woman riding an Egret One electric kick scooter. (Berlin, Germany)
Wikimedia.org • Alex Genz • CC BY-SA

69. Roller skates

Roller skates are footwear fitted with wheels that allow a person to move by skating over a smooth surface. Traditional roller skates usually have four wheels arranged in two pairs, while inline skates have their wheels arranged in a single line.

Roller skaters should maintain control, adapt their speed to the surroundings and watch carefully for pedestrians, cyclists, vehicles and uneven surfaces. Where roller skating is permitted and which traffic rules apply vary between countries.

Roller skates
Roller skates at a roller-derby game.
Wikimedia.org • gt8073a • CC BY

70. Mailman

A mailman, or postal worker, is a person who collects, transports or delivers letters, parcels and other postal items. Postal workers may travel on foot or use bicycles, vans, motorcycles or other vehicles while completing their delivery routes.

When working near roads, postal workers must follow the traffic rules that apply to pedestrians, cyclists or drivers according to how they are travelling. Other road users should take care where postal workers may frequently stop, cross the road or enter and leave vehicles.

Mailman

71. 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.

Hitchhiker
Person hitchhiking beside a road.
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.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Article 25, motorway pedestrian/access rules; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 275–279, motorway emergencies; national guidance example

72. 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.

Toddler
Toddler riding a tricycle.
Wikimedia.org • Hildewagelmans • CC0

73. 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.

Child
Child taking part in a Trailnet bicycle-safety rodeo.
Wikimedia.org • Trailnet • CC BY-SA

74. 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.

Disability
Sign indicating the wheelchair-accessible ramp and entrance.
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.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Article 7(3), vulnerable road users; international framework subject to national 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.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Article 7(3), vulnerable road users; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 204–218, vulnerable people; national guidance example

75. 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.

Motorail
A motorail-train from the Netherlands to Italy at Chiasso station. (Switzerland)
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