One-Way Traffic
The sign indicates that traffic is one-way in the direction of the arrow.
When You See This Sign
When you see "One-way traffic" you must travel only in the direction of the arrow and not enter from the opposite direction. Look for any supplementary signs that indicate exceptions and adjust your choice of lane, turns, and parking to match the designated direction of travel.
Rules & Regulations
- The sign indicates that all vehicular traffic must travel in the direction of the arrow — driving against the arrow is prohibited.
- The prohibition applies to all vehicles, including bicycles and mopeds, unless a supplementary sign (e.g. "Does not apply to bicycles") explicitly exempts certain types of traffic.
- When you turn into a one-way street, you must enter in the direction of the arrow; turning rules and right-of-way at intersections apply as usual.
- The one-way restriction is not lifted until a corresponding end-of-one-way sign or another traffic signal indicates it — always follow supplementary signs and road markings.
Tips for Drivers
- Always check for a supplementary sign below the sign that indicates exceptions (e.g. bicycle, moped, or bus).
- Consider the traffic flow when planning parking or a left turn — one-way streets often have parking bays and lane positions arranged for the direction of travel.
- If your GPS suggests driving the wrong way on a one-way street — follow the signage. Do not turn in just because the street appears empty.
- Be extra vigilant for cyclists who may be permitted to ride against the one-way direction (see supplementary signage) and adjust your speed and distance accordingly.
Common Mistakes
- Believing the sign only applies to motor vehicles and forgetting that cyclists and mopeds are also covered unless exceptions are indicated.
- Assuming it is allowed to drive against the one-way direction because the road looks empty or you only need to go a short distance.
- Failing to notice or misinterpreting a supplementary sign under the main sign (e.g. mistaking an exception for bicycles).
Test Yourself
Road Sign: One-Way Traffic
What does this sign mean for you as a driver?
- A Traffic is one-way in the direction of the arrow — you may not drive the opposite way.
- B Recommended driving direction but traffic in both directions is allowed.
- C No parking in the direction of the arrow.
- D Indicates the start of a walking-speed area.
Exam Tip
In exam questions they may try to make you believe that bicycles are always allowed to ride against the one-way direction — answer that bicycles are only allowed to do so if a supplementary sign or specific road marking explicitly permits it.
Did You Know?
One-way streets are often used in city centers and older street networks to improve traffic flow and reduce conflicts in narrow neighborhoods. In many cities there are supplementary signs that allow bicycles to ride against the one-way direction to create shorter and safer cycling routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the sign also apply to cyclists?
As a general rule, the one-way restriction applies to all types of traffic, including bicycles. Only if a supplementary sign under the main sign or a specific road marking explicitly states "Does not apply to bicycles" (or similar) are cyclists exempt.
May I stop or park on a one-way street?
The one-way sign itself does not prohibit stopping or parking. Parking and stopping are regulated by separate signs and road markings, so check these before you park.
What should I do if I have accidentally driven into one-way traffic?
Stop safely and do not attempt to continue driving against the traffic. Turn around or reverse only if it can be done safely and legally; in many cases it is better to carefully drive on to a place where you can turn around without obstructing other traffic, or contact the police if necessary.
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