Pedestrian path (518)

Pedestrian path

Information Signs Sign number: 518

The sign indicates a road constructed for pedestrians. The sign also indicates that the provisions of the traffic rules concerning the use of such a road apply.

When you see the sign

You must not drive onto the road, as it is intended for pedestrians. If you need to cross the footway, for example to or from a property, do so with extreme caution and without obstructing or endangering pedestrians.

Rules

  • The sign indicates a road intended for pedestrians, and the traffic rules applying to footways are in force.
  • Driving a motor vehicle on a footway is prohibited, except when crossing it is necessary or when other signs expressly permit driving.
  • Stopping wholly or partly on a footway is prohibited.
  • Cyclists may use the footway when pedestrian traffic is light and cycling does not endanger or obstruct pedestrians. When passing pedestrians, they must keep a safe distance and travel at approximately walking speed.

Tips

  • Look out for driveways crossing the footway, and expect pedestrians from both directions.
  • When crossing is necessary, reduce your speed considerably and make sure the entire footway is clear.
  • Do not use the footway as a shortcut, turning area or place to pick up or drop off passengers.
  • Be especially alert for children, people with impaired vision and others who may change direction without noticing the car.

Common misconceptions

  • !Some people think the sign merely recommends that pedestrians use the road. It indicates a separate footway where specific traffic rules apply.
  • !Some people confuse a footway with a shared pedestrian and cycle path and assume that pedestrians and cyclists have the same status. The footway is intended for pedestrians, although cycling may be permitted under specific conditions.
  • !Some people think that a short drive or temporary stop is permitted when few pedestrians are present. It is not permitted without a specific legal basis.

Test yourself

Easy

Pedestrian path (518)

What does this sign indicate?

  • AIt indicates a lane reserved for heavy traffic.
  • BIt indicates a road constructed for motor traffic.
  • CIt indicates a lane reserved for public transport.
  • DIt indicates a road constructed for pedestrians.

Medium

You are driving a car and want to stop with two wheels on the road indicated by the sign. What should you do?

  • AStop there if no pedestrians are obstructed.
  • BContinue driving and find another place to stop.
  • CStop there if you leave the engine running.
  • DStop there if the stay is very brief.

Hard

The only access to a property requires you to cross the road indicated by the sign. No other signs regulate driving. What is permitted?

  • ATo stop partly on the road while opening a gate.
  • BTo cross the road directly when crossing is necessary.
  • CTo park on the road when pedestrians can pass.
  • DTo drive a short distance along the road when it is empty.

Theory test tip

A common trap is to interpret the sign as a general prohibition sign or as a sign for a shared pedestrian and cycle path. Remember that it is an information sign indicating a road intended for pedestrians, and that driving is generally prohibited.

Did you know

Although the road is intended for pedestrians, cycling may be permitted when pedestrian traffic is light and the cyclist does not create a hazard or obstruct pedestrians. When passing, the cyclist must keep a safe distance and travel at approximately walking speed.

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive onto the road if there are no pedestrians there?

No, the absence of pedestrians does not make ordinary driving permitted. You may only cross the footway when necessary, or drive on it if other signs expressly permit this.

Can I stop the car partly on the footway?

No, stopping wholly or partly on a footway is prohibited. The car must be positioned so that the footway is not blocked.

Can cyclists use the footway?

Yes, when pedestrian traffic is light and cycling does not endanger or obstruct pedestrians. When passing, the cyclist must keep a safe distance and travel at approximately walking speed.

Can I cross the footway to drive onto a property?

Yes, crossing may be permitted when necessary. You must drive with extreme caution and must not obstruct or endanger pedestrians.

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