Red acoustic signal with slow pulse frequency
The signal indicates that you are not allowed to proceed
When You See This Sign
When you hear or see an indication of a red audible signal with a slow pulse frequency at a pedestrian crossing, it means that pedestrians must not start to cross. As a driver you should be especially alert, yield to pedestrians, and not drive onto the crossing until the signal indicates it is clear or the crossing is free.
Rules & Regulations
- The red audible signal with a slow pulse frequency means that pedestrians must not start crossing the pedestrian crossing.
- The signal complements the visual pedestrian signals and is especially intended for visually impaired people; you must respect it even if you cannot see any visual signal light.
- As a driver you should be attentive when approaching a pedestrian crossing with an audible signal and not drive onto the crossing while the signal indicates 'do not walk' for pedestrians.
- If you are already on the crossing when the signal starts sounding, you should complete the crossing quickly and safely; do not start a new pedestrian crossing while the red audible signal is active.
Tips for Drivers
- Listen to the character of the signal: slow pulse frequency = do not walk, a faster tone or different pattern may mean it is safe to walk.
- Do not rely solely on the sound — also check the visual pedestrian signals because installations may vary or be out of order.
- As a driver, reduce speed in good time when you hear audible signals near pedestrian crossings and be prepared to stop for pedestrians.
- If you are a cyclist and intend to walk your bike across, stop and follow the pedestrian signal's audible instruction; if you ride across rather than walk, other traffic rules for vehicles apply.
Common Mistakes
- Believing that the red audible signal applies to vehicle traffic — it is primarily intended for pedestrians.
- Confusing the slow pulse frequency (do not walk) with the faster pulse frequency (walk) — study the tone patterns carefully.
- Relying solely on the audible signal without checking that it is heard correctly or that the complementary visual signals are working.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Red acoustic signal with slow pulse frequency
What does this red audible signal with a slow pulse frequency mean for pedestrians?
- A You must not walk.
- B You may walk quickly across the pedestrian crossing.
- C Signal that traffic will soon be free.
- D It is a warning for rockfall.
Exam Tip
On the theory test you may be asked to distinguish between slow and fast pulse frequencies; remember: slow pulse frequency = do not walk (red), and this applies primarily to pedestrians at the crossing.
Did You Know?
Audible pedestrian signals were introduced to help visually impaired people find the right time to cross the street; slow pulse frequency is used to mark 'do not walk' while faster pulses mark 'walk'.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the red audible signal also apply to drivers?
The signal's primary target is pedestrians, but drivers must be attentive and not drive onto the crossing while the signal indicates 'do not walk' for pedestrians.
What do I do if the audible signal says 'do not walk' but the visual light shows green?
Such conflicts are rare. Check both signals carefully and prioritize pedestrian safety — if in doubt, wait until the situation is clear or follow the visual pedestrian signal together with the audible signal.
Can cyclists use the audible signal?
Cyclists who walk their bike across should follow the pedestrian signal's audible instructions. If you ride across as a vehicle, road traffic rules for vehicles apply.
Is it illegal to start walking when the red audible signal is sounding?
Yes, it is prohibited to begin crossing when the signal indicates 'do not walk'. If you are already on the crossing you should complete the crossing quickly and safely.
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