Zebra crossings in Germany: when you must stop

Your duties at a zebra crossing

1. 1Approach at moderate speed so you can stop at any time.
2. 2Let pedestrians and wheelchair users cross when they clearly want to.
3. 3Stop and wait if necessary until they have cleared your side of the road.
4. 4In slow traffic, do not drive onto the crossing if you would have to wait on it.
5. 5Do not overtake at a zebra crossing.
6. 6Do not stop or park on the crossing or within 5 metres before it.

How to tell someone wants to cross

• They stand at the kerb looking at the road.
• They walk briskly towards the crossing.
• They have already stepped onto the crossing.
• Take extra care with children, elderly people and anyone with a walking aid.

Cyclists and traffic lights

The zebra crossing protects pedestrians and wheelchair users. A cyclist who rides across has no priority over cars; once they get off and push, they count as a pedestrian. If a traffic light controls the crossing, the light decides – not the stripes.