No Pedestrian Traffic
The sign indicates a prohibition against pedestrian traffic.
When You See This Sign
When you see C15 you should understand that pedestrians are not allowed to be in the marked area. As a driver you should still be attentive and adjust your speed if you see pedestrians despite the prohibition, and follow supplementary instructions that show the exact extent of the prohibition.
Rules & Regulations
- C15 (Prohibition of pedestrians) prohibits all persons from being on foot on the road or in the area where the sign is posted.
- The prohibition applies until it is lifted by an end sign or until the area's boundary ceases; the scope of the sign is determined by where it is placed or by supplementary signage.
- Cycling is not considered pedestrian traffic — if you dismount and walk your bicycle you become a pedestrian and are covered by the prohibition.
- Vehicle drivers must exercise caution at locations with C15 because the prohibition means pedestrians should not be present there, but if pedestrians are present despite the ban you must adjust your speed to avoid danger.
Tips for Drivers
- Look for the sign at the start of motorways, expressways, tunnels and bridges where pedestrian traffic is dangerous; adjust your attention accordingly.
- If you see pedestrians in an area with C15, slow down and be prepared to stop — pedestrians are violating the prohibition but you are responsible for avoiding an accident.
- Note any supplementary signs or arrows that specify which area the prohibition applies to (e.g. a footpath beside the road that is also prohibited).
- If you are unsure whether the prohibition applies to a footpath or only to the road, follow the signage and choose an alternative route or park safely until the situation is clear.
Common Mistakes
- Believing the prohibition automatically bans cyclists — cyclists are normally still allowed to ride unless otherwise indicated.
- Assuming the prohibition only applies to a crossing or crosswalk — it forbids both walking along and walking across the area covered by the sign.
- Misunderstanding that the sign always applies to the entire road until the next intersection; the sign's scope may be limited by supplementary signs or other delimiters.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: No Pedestrian Traffic
How should you act when you see this sign?
- A Pedestrian traffic is prohibited; pedestrians are not allowed to use this road.
- B Only pedestrian traffic is allowed.
- C Bicycles are prohibited.
- D Horse-drawn vehicles are prohibited.
Exam Tip
A common theory test question is to confuse pedestrians and cyclists. Remember: C15 prohibits persons on foot. If a cyclist dismounts and walks they are considered a pedestrian and are then covered by the prohibition.
Did You Know?
C15 is among the standardized road signs that follow international conventions and is used especially where pedestrians would be exposed to particular danger, for example at motorway entrances, tunnels and certain bridges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the prohibition apply to joggers and people with prams?
Yes. C15 prohibits all persons on foot; this includes joggers, prams, walkers and similar. All such persons are not allowed to be in the area where the sign is posted.
Are cyclists allowed to pass if the sign is at the roadside?
Normally cyclists are not pedestrians and are not affected by C15 as long as they are riding. If the cyclist dismounts and walks, the prohibition applies because the person then is a pedestrian.
Does the prohibition also apply to an adjacent footpath?
That depends on where the sign is placed and whether supplementary signs show that the footpath is also included. The sign applies to the area it indicates; if the footpath is included this will be apparent from the placement or from an additional plate.
Are there exceptions, for example in emergencies or for deliveries?
In emergencies people may of course need to be on foot for their safety, but generally there are no routine permissions to break the prohibition. The police or road authority can, however, temporarily remove or give special instructions if needed.
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