General rules and hierarchy
Due care, limited trust, directions, signals, signs and general rules.
- Directions from a person controlling traffic take priority over signals and signs.
- Traffic lights take priority over signs regulating right of way.
- Every road user must avoid conduct that could cause danger or obstruct traffic.
Pedestrians, cyclists and crossings
A driver's duties at pedestrian and cycle crossings and towards vulnerable road users.
- When approaching a crossing, observe the surroundings and adapt your speed.
- Do not pass a vehicle that has stopped to give way to a pedestrian.
- When turning, account for users crossing the road you are entering.
Right of way and junctions
Uncontrolled junctions, minor roads, left turns and joining traffic.
- First determine whether traffic is controlled by a person, signals or signs.
- At an equal-priority junction, apply the right-hand rule and consider the path of a left turn.
- A driver joining traffic must give way to users already moving on the road.
Speed and following distance
Statutory and signed limits, safe speed, distance and reduced visibility.
- A limit is a maximum; conditions may require driving much more slowly.
- Keep enough distance to avoid a collision if the vehicle ahead brakes.
- After passing a sign, know where and how its restriction ends.
Lane changes, overtaking and U-turns
Conditions for safe manoeuvres, signalling and places where they are prohibited.
- Before a manoeuvre, ensure it is permitted and will not force others to react suddenly.
- An indicator announces your intention but does not give you priority.
- Signs, lines, visibility and the type of junction may prohibit a manoeuvre.
Stopping and parking
The distinction between stopping and parking, prohibited places and visibility.
- Determine whether immobility results from traffic, a rule or the driver's decision.
- Do not obscure signs, crossings, junctions or exits, and do not obstruct traffic.
- B-35 and B-36 differ: a no-stopping restriction is broader than a no-parking restriction.
Vehicle, documents and driver duties
Roadworthiness, equipment, technical condition and required authorisation.
- A vehicle must meet technical requirements and must not endanger safety.
- The driver needs the appropriate entitlement and must comply during roadside checks.
- The required documents and equipment depend on the vehicle and situation.
Official legal sources
ELI shows the act, its status, amendments and consolidated texts. For a legal matter, use those documents rather than relying only on an educational guide.
Road Traffic ActThe principal act, with texts and a list of amendments.ELI · Act of 20 June 1997Road signs and signalsOfficial regulation defining the meaning of road signs and signals.ELI · consolidated textRoad-sign changes in 2026Amendment effective from 19 February 2026.Journal of Laws 2026, item 133