Road user groups and considerations

Road user groups and considerations are a fundamental concept in Norwegian traffic and a central part of the theory test for driver’s license class B. As a car driver, you daily meet a diverse group of road users with different characteristics, needs and vulnerabilities. Understanding the different road user groups and showing proper consideration is crucial for ensuring safe travel for everyone on Norwegian roads.

In Norway, traffic safety is built on a fundamental principle: Vision Zero. This means that no one should die or be seriously injured in traffic. To achieve this, all road users must show mutual respect and consideration, especially to the most vulnerable groups.

For complete insight into laws and regulations that govern road users’ duties, see Laws and regulations.

For a thorough review of cognitive biases and psychological traps behind the wheel, see Psychological traps in traffic.

Basic principles for consideration in traffic

Duty of consideration is not just a moral obligation, but also a legal requirement enshrined in Norwegian law. The Road Traffic Act §3 requires all road users to travel considerately and be attentive. This includes:

• Adaptation of own behavior to the situation
• Predictability in own actions
• Respect for other road user groups’ needs
• Vigilance for potential danger situations

The four pillars for traffic consideration

1. Safety first: All decisions should prioritize safety
2. Accessibility: Traffic should be accessible to everyone
3. Predictability: Act so others can predict your actions
4. Patience: Show understanding that different road users have different needs

Detailed overview of road user groups

Pedestrians - The most vulnerable road users

Pedestrians are the most vulnerable group in traffic. They have no physical protection and are therefore completely dependent on other road users showing consideration.

Characteristics of pedestrians:

• Low speed: 4-6 km/h normal walking pace
• High vulnerability: No physical protection
• Varying attention: May be distracted by mobile phone, conversations or thoughts
• Limited visibility: May have reduced overview, especially children and elderly

Special consideration for pedestrians:

Best practice when meeting pedestrians:

• Eye contact: Establish contact to confirm the pedestrian has seen you
• Predictability: Don’t make sudden maneuvers that may frighten or confuse
• Patience: Give pedestrians good time to cross the road
• Extra caution: At bus stops, exit from shops, train/tram stations

Cyclists - Balance between vulnerability and mobility

Cyclists are in a unique position in traffic. They are more mobile than pedestrians, but far more vulnerable than car drivers. Norway strongly invests in bicycle traffic as environmentally friendly transport, and the number of cyclists is constantly increasing.

Characteristics of cyclists:

• Variable speed: 15-40 km/h depending on terrain and cyclist
• Narrow profile: Easier to overlook in traffic
• Unpredictable movement: Can be affected by wind, holes in the road, or other obstacles
• Seasonal variation: More cyclists in summer months

Legal requirements and recommendations for cyclists:

Special considerations for cyclists:

• Blind spots: Cyclists can be invisible in the car’s blind spots
• Right turns: Extra caution when turning right where cyclist may come on right side
• Weather conditions: Cyclists are more affected by wind and slippery roads
• Dooring: Risk of car passengers opening doors without looking around

Moped riders and motorcyclists - Two-wheel challenges

Moped riders and motorcyclists share many of the same challenges in traffic, but also have significant differences in speed and maneuverability.

Differences between moped and motorcycle:

Considerations for two-wheel vehicles:

• Side distance: Minimum 1.5 meters when overtaking
• Weather conditions: Extra vulnerable in rain and slippery roads
• Maneuverability: Can make quick movements to avoid holes or obstacles
• Visibility: Use of lights during daytime, but still easy to overlook

Children in traffic - Special challenges and considerations

Children constitute a particularly vulnerable group that requires maximum attention from all road users. Their unpredictable behavior and limited understanding of traffic rules make them a high-risk group.

Psychological and physical factors in children:

• Limited visibility: Lower body height gives poorer overview
• Impulsive behavior: May suddenly run into the road after ball or toys
• Incomplete risk understanding: Don’t understand speed and braking distance
• Concentration problems: Easily distracted by play and other activities

Special rules and considerations for children:

For more information about safety for children in cars, see Children in the car.

Horses in traffic - Equestrians on the road

Horses and riders constitute a vulnerable road user group that requires extra caution from car drivers. Horses can be easily frightened, and their behavior can be unpredictable.

Characteristics of horses in traffic:

• Low speed: Normal walking pace of about 8-15 km/h.
• Large size: Requires good space when overtaking.
• Unpredictable behavior: Can react strongly to sudden sounds or movements.

Special considerations when meeting horses:

For more about right of way and roundabouts, see Right of way and roundabouts.

Summary

Understanding road user groups 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.

Remember that traffic safety is a shared responsibility. By showing consideration to all road user groups, you contribute to realizing Vision Zero - that no one should die or be seriously injured in traffic.

For further information on related topics, see:

• Defensive driving
• Attention and interaction
• Speed and distance
• Humans in traffic

Traffic is about people - showing consideration for each other makes the journey safer and more pleasant for everyone.