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Prohibition for pedestrians
Regulatory prohibition Prohibition for pedestrian traffic
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When you see the Zeichen
Zeichen 259 prohibits pedestrians from using the designated traffic area. As a motor vehicle driver, you may generally continue driving there unless another sign prohibits vehicle traffic; nevertheless, expect people who have overlooked or ignored the prohibition.
Rules
- The prohibition applies exclusively to pedestrian traffic.
- Anyone pushing a bicycle or motorcycle is considered a pedestrian and is therefore also generally prohibited from using the designated area.
- Zeichen 259 alone does not prohibit motor vehicles from using the area.
- Zusatzzeichen may limit the area of application or specify certain exceptions.
Tips
- Pay attention to the depicted person walking: this shows which type of traffic is excluded.
- Do not confuse this sign with Zeichen 250, which prohibits vehicles of all kinds.
- Be especially alert near tunnels, ramps or roads without a safe roadside area, as pedestrians may occasionally be present despite the prohibition.
- Always check whether a Zusatzzeichen or another traffic sign imposes additional restrictions.
Common misunderstandings
- Many learner drivers believe that motor vehicles are also not allowed to drive here. However, Zeichen 259 prohibits pedestrian traffic only.
- A bicycle being pushed is mistakenly regarded as permitted bicycle traffic. The person pushing it is legally a pedestrian and is covered by the prohibition.
- Some people assume that the prohibition guarantees that no pedestrians will appear. Motor vehicle drivers must nevertheless be prepared for incorrect or unlawful behaviour at all times.
Exam tip
A typical exam trap asks whether you may continue driving a car: Yes, Zeichen 259 alone prohibits only pedestrians from using the area. Check whether other signs or Zusatzzeichen also restrict vehicle traffic.
Did you know
Zeichen 259 is often used on routes that are particularly dangerous or unsuitable for pedestrians, such as certain tunnels, ramps or stretches without a safe pedestrian area.
Frequently asked questions
May I drive past Zeichen 259 in a car?
Yes, provided that no other traffic sign prohibits entering or passing through. Zeichen 259 applies only to pedestrian traffic.
May I push my bicycle there?
Generally, no. Anyone pushing a bicycle participates in traffic as a pedestrian and is therefore covered by the prohibition.
May I ride my bicycle there?
Zeichen 259 alone does not prohibit bicycle traffic. However, cycling may be excluded by other signs or by the specific traffic area.
Do I still have to watch out for pedestrians as a driver?
Yes. The prohibition does not guarantee that there are actually no pedestrians present; in particular, you must be prepared for misunderstandings or unlawful behaviour.
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