Behaviour Around Vulnerable
- 1/25When approaching a zebra crossing with pedestrians nearby
Drivers must stop for pedestrians who are stepping into or already at marked crossings. This is mandatory for all road users in Greece.
When overtaking a cyclist on a rural road without a bike lane
A safe lateral distance is required when overtaking cyclists to reduce wind impact and ensure their stability and safety.
When approaching an unregulated intersection with a pedestrian crossing
Drivers are required to yield to pedestrians crossing the road at unregulated intersections. Slowing down ensures you can stop safely and prevent any risk to vulnerable road users.
If a cyclist shares the same lane in a city center
Cyclists must be treated with respect and space, just like cars or motorcycles. Harassment or close passes are illegal.
When children are present near a school crossing
School areas demand cautious driving. Children’s actions are unpredictable and may pose sudden hazards.
When passing pedestrians on a rural shoulder
When passing vulnerable users, drivers must reduce speed and leave sufficient space to avoid accidental harm.
If a person with a white cane is near a crossing
If a pedestrian carries a white cane, they are visually impaired and must be given full right of way. Approach slowly and yield with patience.
If an electric scooter user enters a crosswalk
Scooters and e-bikes crossing legally must be respected. At shared crossings, treat them as vulnerable road users and yield accordingly.
When encountering playing children in residential areas
Children may behave unpredictably and cross without warning. Reduce speed and stay alert in school or residential areas.
If a hearing-impaired pedestrian has a visible identifier
Those with hearing or visual impairments require more caution from drivers. Avoid sudden moves or noise that could confuse them.
When cyclists use a regular traffic lane
Cyclists are considered legitimate road users. Do not tailgate, honk, or overtake dangerously close give them ample space.
If a pedestrian jaywalks on a Greece street
If a pedestrian behaves incorrectly, you are still legally obligated to avoid hitting them. Safety takes precedence over fault.
When overtaking a horse rider on a rural path
Animals like horses can spook easily. Reduce speed significantly and keep a wide lateral distance to ensure safety.
If a child suddenly appears between parked cars
Young pedestrians may not see or hear you. Always anticipate delays in their behavior and be ready to stop.
When pedestrians are crossing in heavy snow
Wet or icy roads increase braking distance. Slow down and allow greater lateral distance when overtaking cyclists or pedestrians.
If a cyclist signals a left turn at an intersection
Cyclists use arm signals for turning or stopping. Treat these signals as you would a car’s indicator yield accordingly.
When elderly pedestrians cross slowly
Elderly pedestrians often walk slowly and may not react quickly. Slow down and allow ample time for them to cross safely.
When you see a visually impaired person being guided by a dog
Guide dogs are trained to navigate calmly. Sudden engine sounds, honking, or rushing too close can confuse or frighten the dog, risking the safety of both the handler and the animal. Maintain silence and space when passing.
If a pedestrian walks diagonally across the road without markings
Even if you legally have the right of way, it is your duty to prevent harm to vulnerable road users. Safety must always take priority over legal entitlement.
When an elderly person begins crossing as your light turns green
Do not proceed just because the signal turns green. If a child or elderly person is still crossing, you must wait.
When riding a bicycle in low-light winter conditions in Greece
Twilight and early evening hours in winter create low visibility on roads. Cyclists must use working lights and reflective elements to ensure they’re visible to drivers and comply with Greek traffic regulations for safety.
When you see a cyclist veering to avoid debris or a pothole
Unexpected swerves by cyclists often happen due to road surface hazards. Drivers must anticipate this and stay alert, avoid abrupt reactions, and give the cyclist ample room to correct their path safely.
When driving in a shared space zone
In shared zones, pedestrians have total priority. Drive slowly and stop if anyone is walking nearby.
When a school patrol signals you to stop
School guards or crossing patrols are legally enforceable. Failing to obey them can result in fines or points.
When turning across a cycle lane
You must not turn or cross over a cycle lane unless it is completely clear. Always yield to cyclists first.