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Dead end
In the upper part of the traffic sign, the permeability of the dead end for bicycle traffic and/or pedestrian traffic may be shown by pictograms.
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When you see the Zeichen
Expect the road to be impassable to motor vehicles at some point, and only enter if your destination is there or you can safely turn around. If the upper part shows pedestrian or bicycle symbols, there is an exit at the end for the type of traffic shown.
Rules
- Zeichen 357 indicates a dead end; it does not prohibit motor vehicles from entering the road.
- There is no through route for motor vehicles at the end, so you may have to turn around or drive back.
- Pedestrian and bicycle symbols in the upper part indicate that the dead end is passable at the end for the types of traffic shown.
- When turning around or reversing, you must rule out any danger to other road users; if necessary, you must have someone guide you.
Tips
- Before entering, check whether your destination is actually in the dead end.
- Look out for opportunities to turn around in good time, and keep entrances and property access points clear.
- Drive particularly slowly and attentively, as dead ends often have pedestrians, playing children or cyclists using them.
- If pedestrian or bicycle symbols are shown, do not assume that motor vehicles can also continue at the end.
Common misunderstandings
- The sign is confused with a no-entry sign. Entry is generally permitted.
- The pictograms are understood as indicating a mandatory footpath or cycle path. Here, they merely indicate that the dead end is passable at the end for the types of traffic shown.
- Learner drivers assume that Schrittgeschwindigkeit automatically applies in a dead end. The sign alone does not prescribe a specific speed.
Exam tip
A typical exam trap is whether you are allowed to enter the road: Yes, because Zeichen 357 is an information sign, not a prohibition. If a bicycle or pedestrian is shown at the top, the road is passable only for the type of traffic shown.
Did you know
The StVO allows a special version of Zeichen 357: Pictograms may be shown in the upper part to indicate that pedestrians and/or cyclists can still pass through the dead end at the end.
Frequently asked questions
Am I allowed to drive a car into a road marked with Zeichen 357?
Yes, the sign does not prohibit entry. However, you must expect that you will not be able to continue driving at the end.
What do bicycle or pedestrian symbols in the upper part of the sign mean?
They indicate that there is a connection for cyclists and/or pedestrians at the end. For motor vehicles, the road remains a dead end.
Do I have to drive at Schrittgeschwindigkeit in a dead end?
No, Zeichen 357 does not by itself prescribe Schrittgeschwindigkeit. However, you must adapt your speed to the local conditions and to any pedestrians or children who may be present.
Am I allowed to turn around or reverse at the end of the dead end?
Yes, provided this is not prohibited by other regulations and you rule out any danger. If the situation is unclear, you must have someone guide you if necessary.
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