Road users in traffic include everyone who travels on or along the roads. To drive safely and considerately, you must know the different groups, from vulnerable road users to buses, and understand the concept of right of way. A thorough understanding of road users is crucial for the theory test for driver’s license class B, and for your daily driving experience.
Overview of road users
| Road user type | Description | Important considerations and rules |
|---|---|---|
| Vulnerable road users | Pedestrians and others with minimal physical protection | See Road user groups and considerations |
| Two-wheelers | Moped riders and motorcyclists | See Overtaking and lane changes |
| Cyclists | Bicycles and e-bikes | See Bicycle transport |
| Bus | Public transport on wheels | See Traffic rules for special vehicles |
| Blind spot | Area car drivers cannot see in mirrors | See Communication with other road users |
| Pedestrians | Pedestrians on crosswalks and sidewalks | See Road user groups and considerations |
| Right of way | When you have the right to drive without yielding | See Right of way and roundabouts |
Vulnerable road users
Vulnerable road users include pedestrians, children, elderly and people with reduced functional ability. They are the most vulnerable road user group with little or no physical protection.
- High vulnerability in collisions
- No vehicle requirements, but requirement to follow traffic signals
- Important with eye contact and low speed near crosswalks
Two-wheelers
Two-wheelers include moped riders and motorcyclists. They have lower stability than four-wheel vehicles and can disappear in the car’s blind spots.
- Variable speed from 45 km/h (moped) to high speeds (motorcycle)
- Requires good distance when overtaking
- Be aware of hand signals and turn signals
Cyclists
Cyclists move at variable speeds and often share roads with motorized traffic.
- Use bike lanes when available
- Give good space and reduce speed when overtaking
- Follow the rules in Right of way and roundabouts for right of way
Bus
Buses have great length and weight, and limited maneuverability. This gives long braking distances and large blind spots.
- Avoid staying in blind spots
- Don’t overtake on the right side at stops
- Show consideration when stopping for passenger boarding and alighting
For details on interaction when bus drives out from stop, see Bus from stop – right of way and consideration.
Blind spot
Blind spot is the area not covered by the car’s mirrors or cameras. Understanding and controlling these zones is crucial for safe driving.
- Adjust mirrors correctly before driving
- Use shoulder checks to cover dead spots
- Be extra attentive during lane changes and reversing
Pedestrians
Pedestrians include everyone who travels on foot, with or without aids.
- Respect pedestrian crossings
- Reduce speed at schools and residential areas
- Give right of way when pedestrians walk out into the road
Right of way
The concept right of way defines when you have priority. This depends on yield signs, priority rules and situational understanding.
- Yield signs (white triangle with red edge) require you to give right of way
- Priority signs (yellow diamond) give you the right to right of way
- Always confirm that other road user groups stop before you drive For a detailed review of right of way and priority rules, see Right of way and roundabouts.
Summary
Knowing the road users and showing proper consideration is crucial for traffic safety. By understanding the different groups, their vulnerability and the rules that apply, you can drive safer and more responsibly.