Signals: Lights & Police

Flashing amber means the light is out of order — give-way signs and priority rules apply instead (or right-before-left if nothing else is posted).

Green arrow plate (black background) with a red main light: you may turn right after coming to a full stop, only from the right-hand lane, and only if it doesn't endanger cross traffic, pedestrians, or cyclists.

Turning left on a green light with a tram approaching straight ahead on your left: you must wait — the straight-ahead tram still beats your turn, matching the general priority rule.

Ended up in the wrong (right) lane while wanting to turn left? Proceed straight ahead instead of forcing the turn.

• To carefully give way to an emergency vehicle with blue light and siren
• When a police officer is directing traffic and signals you through

A supplementary sign can permit only cyclists to turn right on red — it does not extend to motor vehicles.

A police officer's hand signals always override both the traffic lights and any priority signs present.

Officer's chest facing you = stop. Officer side-on (you see their profile) = you may proceed. Arms raised = traffic is about to be released — get ready.

"STOP POLIZEI" illuminated on a police car's roof applies only to the vehicle directly behind it (you, specifically) — not to all following traffic.

"BITTE FOLGEN" ("please follow") also applies only to you specifically, not the whole lane.

A police signalling disc shown from a car ahead: you must follow it until it stops, and you may not overtake it.

Your lighting equipment must be correctly installed, clean, and fully functional.

A rear-heavy load tilts the low-beam headlight cone upward, dazzling oncoming traffic — adjust the headlight range for your load, and use only approved replacement bulbs. Check headlight aim after any repair.