Traffic signsWorldwide

A square is an open public space where one or more roads, streets or pedestrian routes meet.

No. An intersection is primarily the place where roads cross or meet, while a square can be a larger open public space containing several roads, traffic movements and other activities.

Yes, where traffic is permitted. Some squares carry ordinary traffic, while others are partly or completely reserved for pedestrians, cyclists or public transport.

Yes. Parking may be provided in designated parts of a square, subject to the applicable signs, markings and local parking regulations.

Yes. A square may lie wholly or partly within a pedestrian zone where motor-vehicle access is restricted.

Yes. Urban squares may contain bus lanes, tram tracks, passenger stops or other public-transport infrastructure.

This depends on the road layout, traffic signs and local regulations. Cyclists may use the roadway, cycle facilities or other permitted routes through the square.

There is no universal priority rule simply because traffic is in a square. Road users must follow the traffic lights, priority signs, road markings and ordinary priority rules applying at the location.

Not generally. The applicable speed depends on the road, zone and traffic signs. Lower limits may apply in pedestrian-oriented, residential or traffic-calmed areas.

Yes. Squares are often used for markets, events and public gatherings, which may result in temporary traffic restrictions or road closures.

Yes. Squares commonly have significant pedestrian activity, so drivers should observe carefully and adapt their speed where necessary.

Yes. Authorities may temporarily change access, parking or traffic circulation because of events, construction, emergencies or other traffic-management needs.

A path is a relatively narrow route intended primarily for pedestrians and, where permitted, other road users or small vehicles.

Not necessarily. A footpath is specifically intended for pedestrians, while a path may also permit cyclists or other users according to local rules.

No. A cycle path is specifically designated for bicycles and other permitted users. An ordinary path does not automatically have that legal status.

This depends on the legal status, width and signs applying to the path. Some paths permit cyclists, while others are reserved for pedestrians or particular users.

This depends on local law. Some paths prohibit motor vehicles entirely, while narrow vehicles may be permitted on other paths unless traffic signs restrict access.

Yes. A narrow path can legally form part of the public-road network even when it is unsuitable for ordinary cars.

No. Paths can be paved, gravelled, compacted or unsurfaced depending on their location and purpose.

Yes. Signs can reserve a path for particular road users or prohibit certain vehicles, regardless of whether they could physically fit on it.

The applicable local priority rules determine who must give way. Special rules often apply when a minor path joins an ordinary road.

Yes, where both are permitted. Faster users should adapt their speed and avoid endangering or unnecessarily obstructing pedestrians.

Yes. At the crossing, users must follow the applicable priority signs, traffic lights, road markings and general right-of-way rules.

No. Its legal classification depends on the definitions and regulations of the country concerned. A narrow route might instead be a footpath, cycle path, private access road or another type of facility.

Particulates, or particulate matter, are very small solid particles or liquid droplets suspended in the air.

PM10 refers to particles with a diameter of up to approximately 10 micrometres. PM2.5 refers to finer particles with a diameter of up to approximately 2.5 micrometres.

Road traffic can produce particles through engine exhaust, brake wear, tyre wear and road-surface wear. Passing traffic can also resuspend dust already present on the road.

Yes. Combustion in diesel engines can produce very small soot particles. Modern diesel vehicles commonly use particulate filters to capture a large proportion of these exhaust particles.

A particulate filter is an exhaust-treatment device designed to trap particulate matter produced by an engine. Diesel particulate filters are commonly known as DPFs.

Yes. Petrol engines can also produce particulate emissions, particularly certain direct-injection engines. Appropriate emission-control systems may therefore include particulate filters.

Fully electric vehicles produce no exhaust particulates from a combustion engine, but particles can still result from tyre wear, road wear and braking.

Vehicle-emission regulation is increasingly addressing non-exhaust emissions. The European Euro 7 framework includes requirements concerning brake-particle emissions and tyre abrasion.

No. Particulate matter consists of tiny airborne particles, while carbon dioxide is a gas. They are different types of vehicle emissions and are regulated for different environmental reasons.

Measures include effective particulate filters, cleaner vehicle technologies, correctly maintained emission-control systems and reductions in brake, tyre and road-wear emissions.

Air pollution is contamination of the air by gases, particles or other substances that can adversely affect human health, the environment or ecosystems.

Vehicles produce pollutants through fuel combustion, exhaust systems, brake wear, tyre wear and road-surface interaction. Moving traffic can also resuspend dust already present on the road.

Important traffic-related pollutants include nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds. Their relative importance depends on the vehicle, fuel and driving conditions.

Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is an air pollutant associated particularly with combustion processes and road traffic. High concentrations are commonly found near busy roads and densely trafficked urban areas.

Particulate matter consists of tiny solid particles or liquid droplets suspended in the air. Road traffic can produce particles from exhaust, brakes, tyres and road surfaces.

No. Carbon dioxide is primarily regulated as a greenhouse gas because of its contribution to climate change. Local air-quality pollution generally focuses on substances such as nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter, ozone and other pollutants that directly affect air quality and health.

Fully electric vehicles produce no combustion-engine exhaust emissions while driving, but they can still contribute to non-exhaust particulate emissions through tyres, brakes and road wear.

Yes. Concentrations of traffic-related pollutants can be higher close to heavily trafficked roads because many emissions occur close to ground level and near where people live and travel.

A low-emission zone is an area where access by more polluting vehicles is restricted in order to reduce traffic-related air pollution. Access criteria may depend on factors such as fuel type, vehicle category and emission standard.

Measures include cleaner vehicles, stricter emission standards, effective emission-control equipment, low-emission zones, public transport, cycling and walking, as well as traffic-management measures that reduce unnecessary congestion and emissions.

An interchange is a junction that allows traffic to transfer between major roads, commonly using ramps and grade-separated bridges or tunnels.

At an ordinary intersection, traffic streams normally meet or cross at the same level. An interchange usually separates major traffic movements vertically and connects them using ramps.

They are most common on motorways, expressways, ring roads and other high-capacity roads where stopping at ordinary intersections would disrupt traffic flow.

A ramp is a connecting road that allows vehicles to enter, leave or transfer between the roads forming the interchange.

Read the advance-direction signs early, identify your route or destination and move into the appropriate lane in sufficient time.

No. Interchanges can contain several exits and merging traffic streams. Signal in good time and change lane only when there is sufficient space to do so safely.

This depends on the local signs, markings and merging rules. Drivers joining a motorway commonly have to give way to traffic already travelling on it, but local regulations must always be followed.

Yes. Ramps may have lower speed limits or require a lower safe speed because of bends, merging traffic or limited visibility.

Continue to the next suitable exit or interchange. Never reverse, stop unexpectedly or cross prohibited areas to return to a missed exit.

No. Common layouts include cloverleaf, diamond, trumpet and directional interchanges. Their design depends on traffic volumes, available space and the roads being connected.

An intersection is a place where two or more roads meet, cross or branch, allowing traffic to move from one road to another.

Priority depends on the traffic lights, traffic signs, road markings and local traffic rules that apply. At an uncontrolled intersection, the applicable default priority rule determines who must give way.

Approach at a suitable speed, observe signs and signals, check for traffic from all directions and be prepared to give way or stop when required.

A box junction is a marked area, usually at an intersection, that is intended to remain clear so that vehicles do not block crossing or conflicting traffic.

The exact rules depend on the country, but drivers should generally enter only when there is enough space beyond the junction to clear it without stopping inside the marked area.

Box junctions help prevent intersections from becoming blocked during heavy traffic, allowing cross traffic and other road users to continue moving.

Rush hour is a period when unusually large numbers of people travel at the same time, resulting in increased traffic and often congestion.

Rush hour commonly occurs during the morning and late afternoon or evening on working days, but the exact times vary according to the city, road and local travel patterns.

No. The term does not mean that congestion lasts exactly one hour. In busy urban areas, peak traffic conditions may continue for several hours.

Congestion develops when traffic demand approaches or exceeds the available road capacity. Intersections, merging traffic, collisions, roadworks and weather can make the congestion worse.

Yes. Leave sufficient distance to react to sudden braking and frequent changes in traffic speed. Avoid following another vehicle too closely even when traffic is moving slowly.

Unnecessary lane changes can create additional conflicts and may not significantly reduce journey time. Choose an appropriate lane, observe surrounding traffic and change lane only when it can be done safely.

Yes. Roads equipped with variable traffic management may display lower speed limits during congestion. Drivers must follow the speed limit currently indicated.

A rush-hour lane is an additional traffic lane that can be opened during busy periods to increase road capacity. It may use a lane or shoulder that is closed to normal traffic at other times.

No. Such a lane may only be used when traffic signals or signs indicate that it is open. Never assume that congestion alone permits its use.

Check current traffic conditions and expected journey times, allow additional travel time and consider an alternative route, departure time or mode of transport where appropriate.

A filling station is a facility where vehicles can obtain petrol, diesel or other fuels and may also offer additional services for drivers and passengers.

Many countries use a service or information sign with a fuel-pump symbol to indicate a filling station. The exact design and meaning of the sign vary between countries.

Reduce your speed, follow the designated entrance and traffic direction and watch carefully for vehicles, pedestrians and people moving around the fuel pumps.

A road code is the body of traffic rules and regulations governing how road users must behave on public roads.

A road code can regulate subjects such as priority, speed, overtaking, turning, parking, traffic signals, road signs and road markings, as well as the responsibilities of different road users.

No. Although many traffic rules and signs are similar internationally, each country establishes its own traffic legislation and may apply different rules, signs, speed limits and requirements.

Two-way traffic means that vehicles may travel in both directions along the same road or carriageway.

They may be separated by centre lines, traffic lanes, a median or another physical divider. On some roads, opposing traffic may share an undivided carriageway.

Vehicles may approach from the opposite direction, so drivers should maintain a safe position and take particular care when overtaking, turning or passing through narrow sections.

A tram stop is a designated place where trams stop so that passengers can board or leave the vehicle.

Tram stops are usually identified by a stop sign, platform, shelter, timetable or public-transport markings. Their appearance varies between countries and transport networks.

Yes. Some tram stops have a central platform or refuge island, while others require passengers to cross part of the roadway between the pavement and the tram.

Yes. Passengers may be boarding, leaving or crossing the roadway near the tram. Drivers should reduce speed where necessary and be prepared to stop.

Yes. At some stops passengers must cross a traffic lane to reach the tram. Local traffic laws may require approaching drivers to stop or give passengers sufficient opportunity to cross safely.

Parking at or near a tram stop is commonly prohibited or restricted so that trams and passengers can use the stop safely. The required clearance distance varies between countries.

This depends on the road layout and local traffic rules. Where passing is permitted, drivers must take particular care for passengers entering or leaving the roadway.

Trams commonly benefit from special priority rules because they are restricted to their tracks. The exact priority rules depend on the country and traffic-control system.

Only when this can be done legally and safely. Cyclists should be particularly alert for passengers crossing a cycle lane or roadway between the tram and the pavement.

Wait in the designated waiting area where one is provided, obey pedestrian signals and check carefully for approaching traffic before crossing any roadway or cycle facility to reach the tram.

A train station is a railway facility where trains stop so passengers can board, leave or transfer between services.

Stations may include platforms, waiting areas, ticket machines, information displays, toilets, shops, bicycle parking and car parking. Facilities vary greatly between stations.

Yes. Many stations act as transport hubs connecting trains with buses, trams, metros, taxis, bicycles or other forms of transport.

Many stations provide designated parking areas. Parking may be free, paid, time-limited or reserved for particular users, so drivers must follow the local signs and parking conditions.

A Kiss and Ride area allows drivers to stop briefly to drop off or collect passengers without using an ordinary parking space. Waiting or longer-term parking may be prohibited.

Many stations provide bicycle racks, shelters or secure bicycle-parking facilities. Local conditions determine whether these facilities are free or subject to payment.

Use only the authorised crossing, bridge, tunnel or other designated route. Never cross railway tracks directly unless an official crossing specifically permits it.

Wait on the designated platform and remain a safe distance from the platform edge, particularly when a train is approaching or passing through the station.

This depends on the station rules. In many systems, cyclists must dismount and walk their bicycle through station buildings and along platforms.

Expect increased numbers of pedestrians, cyclists, buses, taxis and vehicles entering or leaving parking areas. Reduce speed where necessary and pay particular attention at crossings and station entrances.

A 2+1 road is a three-lane road where two lanes are provided in one direction and one lane in the opposite direction, with the arrangement alternating along the route.

The alternating two-lane sections provide regular opportunities for vehicles to overtake slower traffic without requiring a continuous two-lane carriageway in each direction.

They may be separated by road markings or by a central safety barrier. Barrier-separated designs are particularly intended to prevent vehicles from entering the opposing traffic stream.

A 2+2 road is a road with two lanes for traffic travelling in one direction and two lanes for traffic travelling in the opposite direction.

No. The opposing directions may be separated by a median or safety barrier, but some 2+2 roads use only road markings to separate them.

This depends on the country's traffic rules. In countries where traffic keeps right, drivers should generally use the right-hand lane unless there is a reason to use another lane, such as overtaking or preparing for a turn.

A passing lane is a lane used primarily to overtake slower vehicles travelling in the same direction.

It depends on the country's driving side. In countries with right-hand traffic it is generally the left lane, while in countries with left-hand traffic it is generally the right lane.

The exact rules vary between countries, but drivers are commonly expected to return to the normal travel lane after completing an overtake when it is safe and required.

A reversible lane is a lane that can carry traffic in different directions at different times, depending on the traffic-management system in operation.

Drivers should follow the lane-control signals, traffic lights and signs above or beside the lane. A lane must not be used when the applicable signal indicates that it is closed to traffic in that direction.

They allow road authorities to increase capacity in the busiest direction without permanently adding another traffic lane.

A street gutter is a drainage channel along the edge of a road that collects rainwater and directs it toward drains or another drainage system.

Normally, no. A gutter is primarily part of the road's drainage system and is not intended to function as a normal traffic lane.

Gutters may contain water, leaves, debris, drain covers or uneven surfaces, which can reduce grip or make cycling less stable.

Road debris is any object, material or substance lying on the road that may obstruct traffic or create a hazard.

Examples include lost cargo, vehicle parts, stones, branches, litter, broken glass and spilled materials.

Reduce speed when necessary, maintain control of your vehicle and avoid the debris only when you can do so safely. Avoid sudden braking or steering that could endanger other road users.

A cargo bike is a bicycle designed to carry goods, children or larger loads than a conventional bicycle.

Common designs include two-wheel box bikes, three-wheel cargo bikes and longtail bicycles with an extended rear carrying area.

Yes. Many cargo bikes use electric pedal assistance to make it easier to move heavier loads or travel longer distances.

It can be. If the electrical assistance remains within the applicable power and assistance-speed limits, the vehicle may remain legally classified as a bicycle. More powerful or faster models may belong to another category.

Yes, when it is designed and equipped for passenger transport. Children should use the seats, restraints, foot protection or other safety equipment provided by the manufacturer and required by local law.

Yes. Transporting goods is one of its main purposes. Loads must be securely positioned and must not make the bicycle unstable, obstruct the rider's view or exceed applicable dimensional or weight limits.

This depends on its dimensions and legal classification. Ordinary-sized cargo bicycles generally follow bicycle rules, while unusually wide models may be excluded from certain cycle facilities.

Normally not when it remains legally classified as an ordinary bicycle or electrically assisted bicycle. Faster or more powerful vehicles may be subject to different licensing requirements.

This depends on the country's bicycle rules and the vehicle's classification. A model legally classified as a faster motorised vehicle may have different helmet requirements from an ordinary cargo bicycle.

Yes. Additional weight can affect acceleration, braking, steering and stability. Reduce speed where necessary, allow greater stopping distance and take particular care when turning.

Yes, where permitted. The bicycle, trailer and total load must comply with the applicable dimensional, mass, braking and passenger-transport requirements.

Cargo bikes can be longer, wider and heavier than ordinary bicycles and may need additional space when turning or stopping. Drivers should leave sufficient passing distance and avoid cutting across their path.

Lane splitting means riding between two lanes or queues of vehicles travelling in the same direction.

The terms are often used interchangeably. Lane filtering usually refers more specifically to riding between vehicles that are stationary or moving slowly, while lane splitting can be used more broadly.

No. Some countries expressly permit it under specified conditions, some tolerate particular forms of filtering and others prohibit it.

No. Where lane splitting is permitted, local rules may impose a maximum motorcycle speed, a maximum speed difference compared with surrounding traffic or both.

Lane splitting normally refers to travelling between lanes or queues moving in the same direction. Riding between your traffic queue and opposing traffic may be prohibited or governed by ordinary overtaking rules.

Not automatically. Permission to travel between traffic lanes does not normally give a rider permission to use an emergency lane, shoulder, cycle path or other restricted part of the road.

Important risks include vehicles changing lane, narrowing gaps, blind spots, opening doors and sudden movements by drivers who may not expect a motorcycle between the lanes.

Yes. Drivers should use their mirrors, signal appropriately and check relevant blind spots before changing lane.

No. A high speed difference reduces the time available for both the rider and other drivers to react. Where filtering is legal, specific limits may apply.

No automatic universal priority exists. Riders and other drivers must continue to follow the applicable manoeuvring, lane-changing and right-of-way rules.

A forestry vehicle is a vehicle designed or adapted for forestry work, such as pulling machinery, carrying equipment, transporting timber or working on forest land.

No. Forestry vehicles can include tractors, specialised self-propelled machines, trailers and other equipment. Their legal classification depends on their design and use.

A forestry tractor is a powered vehicle primarily designed to pull, push, carry or operate equipment or trailers used for forestry work.

Yes, when legally permitted and properly equipped. Registration, insurance, lighting, dimensions, speed and driving-licence requirements may apply before a forestry vehicle can use public roads.

This depends on the vehicle classification, mass and country. Some countries have special agricultural or forestry vehicle licence categories, while other machines require ordinary car or heavy-vehicle licences.

They may. The permitted speed can depend on the vehicle's construction speed, mass, road type and local traffic rules. Posted speed limits must also be respected.

This depends on the country and vehicle classification. Agricultural and forestry vehicles are often restricted from high-speed roads, particularly when their construction speed is unsuitable for motorway traffic.

Forestry vehicles can be large, slow, wide or equipped with projecting machinery. Reduce speed where necessary and overtake only when there is sufficient visibility and space.

Yes, where the vehicle is designed and approved to do so. Forestry tractors commonly tow trailers carrying timber, machinery or other forestry materials.

Some machinery or loads may make a forestry vehicle unusually wide or long. Where legal limits are exceeded, special markings, lighting, permits or escort arrangements may be required under local law.

A construction vehicle is a vehicle or mobile machine used for construction, excavation, lifting, roadworks or transporting construction materials.

Examples include excavators, wheel loaders, bulldozers, road rollers, mobile cranes, dump trucks and concrete mixers.

No. A construction vehicle may legally be classified as a truck, mobile machine, special-purpose vehicle or another vehicle category depending on its design and use.

Yes, when the vehicle is legally permitted and suitably equipped for road use. Some machines are designed mainly for construction sites and may be subject to special restrictions when travelling on public roads.

This depends on the vehicle category, mass, speed and local law. Heavy trucks, mobile cranes and specialised machines may require different licence categories.

They may. A vehicle's design speed, mass, tyres, suspension and legal classification can result in a lower permitted speed than that applying to ordinary cars.

Construction vehicles can be large, slow and difficult to manoeuvre and may have significant blind spots. They may also turn, reverse or enter a construction site unexpectedly.

Flashing amber lights generally warn other road users that the vehicle is working, moving slowly or creating an unusual obstruction or hazard. They do not normally give the vehicle the same priority as an emergency vehicle.

Yes. Some construction machinery exceeds normal vehicle dimensions or masses. Special permits, route restrictions, warning equipment or escorts may then be required.

Reduce speed where necessary and leave sufficient space. Be aware of blind spots, projecting equipment, wide turns and workers who may be present nearby.

A semi-trailer truck consists of a powered road tractor coupled to a semi-trailer primarily used to transport goods.

A semi-trailer is a trailer designed so that part of the trailer and a significant part of its load are supported by the towing tractor.

An ordinary trailer generally supports its own weight through its axles, while a semi-trailer transfers a substantial vertical load to the tractor through its coupling.

The semi-trailer is normally connected through a kingpin and fifth-wheel coupling mounted behind the tractor cab.

The tractor and semi-trailer are connected by a pivoting coupling, allowing the two parts to turn relative to each other when the combination changes direction.

Yes. Heavy articulated trucks normally require a heavy-goods-vehicle licence that also authorises the driver to tow a heavy trailer or semi-trailer. The precise licence categories differ between countries.

They often do. Many countries impose vehicle-specific maximum speeds on heavy goods vehicles, particularly on motorways and other high-speed roads.

The semi-trailer's rear wheels follow a tighter path than the tractor's front wheels. Drivers therefore need additional space when turning, particularly at narrow intersections.

Large trucks can restrict your view of traffic ahead and require considerable stopping distance. Keeping an appropriate following distance improves visibility and reaction time.

Large trucks have substantial blind spots around the cab and trailer. Avoid remaining beside the vehicle unnecessarily and be particularly careful when the truck is turning or changing lane.

A trolleybus is an electrically powered bus that normally receives electricity from overhead wires while travelling on ordinary road wheels.

No. A tram runs on rails and follows the path of its tracks. A trolleybus has ordinary tyres and is steered like a conventional bus.

Yes. A trolleybus uses an electric motor, but unlike a battery-electric bus it traditionally receives most or all of its operating power from overhead electrical wires.

Electrical current is normally collected from overhead wires through poles or another current-collection system mounted on the vehicle.

Some trolleybuses can. Modern vehicles may have batteries or auxiliary motors that allow limited operation away from the overhead wiring.

Yes. Because it is steered rather than rail-guided, a trolleybus can move sideways within the range permitted by its overhead electrical connection and road layout.

Yes, where local rules permit. Trolleybuses operating public-transport services can normally use infrastructure reserved for authorised buses and public transport.

This depends on the local traffic law. Some countries require other drivers to allow public-transport buses, including trolleybuses, to leave designated stops.

Yes. Passengers may be boarding, leaving or crossing the roadway. Drivers should approach carefully and give passengers sufficient space where required.

A trolleybus operating entirely on electric power produces no combustion-engine exhaust emissions at the vehicle. Non-exhaust emissions from tyres, brakes and road wear can still occur.