Stopping and parking – part 1

Driving is not the only way to use public roads. Stopping and parking are also classed as using the road. There are many reasons to stop, either voluntarily or involuntarily (e.g. due to other traffic).

Involuntary stopping

An involuntary stop is a stop made due to traffic, e.g. giving way, stopping at traffic lights, traffic jams, and bridge openings.

When making an involuntary stop, the most important rule is: avoid causing a hinder as much as possible. Blocking roads or pathways is prohibited. Do not stop at intersections, level crossings, cycle paths, cycle/moped paths, or pedestrian crossings. In some cases where stopping is prohibited, this is indicated by a white cross painted on the road surface. Do not stop in the section of road used by oncoming traffic.

When you have to stop because of a breakdown or accident, you cannot always choose where to stop. The rules of involuntary stopping do not apply in that case, but you have to choose the safest place within your abilities.

Voluntary stopping

Voluntary stops include picking up or dropping off passengers and loading and unloading goods. In the latter case, the goods must be a certain weight or size; stopping to post a letter is considered parking. While stopping is allowed on both sides of the road, the right side is recommended for safety reasons.

Stopping is prohibited in the following areas:

• at an intersection or level crossing;
• on a cycle lane or on the carriageway next to a cycle lane;
• at a crossing or within a distance of five metres from it;
• in a tunnel;
• at a bus stop at the checkered marking or, if this marking is missing, at a distance of less than 12 metres from the bus stop sign;
  (Please note, there is one exception: stopping for picking up or dropping off passengers is allowed at bus stops.)
• on the road next to a bus lane;
• next to a solid yellow line, usually found on kerbs.

The E-2 sign prohibits stopping on the side of the carriageway where the sign is placed. In this case, stopping is still allowed in areas intended for this purpose, such as parking spaces, car parks, and the verge.

Stopping in areas where a vehicle is not permitted is also prohibited. This includes the pavement, hatched road markings, dividing points, and designated lanes such as bus lanes.