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Theory topic 4 · Düsseldorf.

topic 4.
Road transport system & railway crossings.

A road is more than asphalt. Topic 4 shows how the German transport network is structured, which paths belong to whom (cycle path, bus lane, hard shoulder) and why level crossings are among the most dangerous points in everyday life.

Class B + B197
Roadways & Lanes
Railway crossings
Special routes

What you learn.

Learning objectives for topic 4

  • How roads are categorized (highway, federal, state, district, municipal road)
  • Who can use which lane and which special route (bus lane, cycle lane, protective lane)
  • How to read road markings (solid, broken, double)
  • Which rules apply at gated and unguarded level crossings
  • What St. Andrew's cross, flashing lights and red lights at the level crossing mean
  • How you behave at construction sites, bottlenecks and tunnels
  • What are the special features of residential streets, traffic-calmed areas and play streets?

The most important rules.

Core rules from topic 4

Rule 1

St. Andrew's Cross has absolute priority

The white cross with red tips (traffic sign 201) indicates a railway crossing. Rail vehicles ALWAYS have priority here - even without barriers or lights. Speed ​​to a maximum of 10 km/h before the crossing.

Rule 2

Restricted crossings: Barrier = Stop

As soon as the barrier lowers, the red light or yellow light lights up or a train can be heard acoustically, the crossing is no longer allowed to be entered or used. Stop at the stop line, otherwise in front of the St. Andrew's Cross.

Rule 3

Solid line is taboo

A solid longitudinal line may not be driven over or crossed - not even when overtaking or turning. Only the broken line allows you to change lanes or overtake if the traffic situation allows it.

Rule 4

Special paths belong to others

Cycle paths, bus lanes, sidewalks and bridle paths are taboo for cars - even for stopping or parking. Exception: public buses, medical transport, taxis (in bus lanes with additional sign). Penalty: from €55 + point.

Rule 5

Traffic-calmed areas: walking pace

In the 'Play Street Sign' (traffic-calmed area, sign 325.1), walking speed applies (max. 7 km/h), children's play is permitted, pedestrians have priority, parking only in marked areas.

Common mistakes.

What goes wrong in the theory test

Error 1

Stop only at St. Andrew's Cross

Wrong: If the red light flashes or the barrier falls, the stop line applies 5 m before the crossing. Anyone who drives to the intersection risks a fine + point.

Error 2

Confusing protective strips with cycle paths

The protective strip (dashed, with bicycle symbol) may be driven over by cars if necessary without endangering cyclists. The cycle path (continuous) is taboo.

Error 3

Overestimating walking pace

Walking pace means 4-7 km/h, not 20. In traffic-calmed areas, this is the most common trap in the exam answer.

Error 4

Underestimating railway crossings without barriers

Over 60% of all level crossing accidents occur at unguarded crossings. In front of every St. Andrew's Cross: slow down, check your visibility, listen (open the window!).

Sample questions.

In theory test style

Question 1

You are approaching a level crossing with a St. Andrew's cross and no barrier. How do you behave?

AnswerReduce speed significantly (max. 10 km/h), check your visibility, hear and only pass if no train is approaching.

The St. Andrew's Cross gives rail vehicles absolute right of way - cars, bicycles and pedestrians have to wait.

Question 2

What does a solid longitudinal line on the road mean?

AnswerIt must not be driven over or crossed - not even when overtaking or turning.

Violation: €30 fine; significantly higher when threatened.

Question 3

What is the maximum speed you can drive in a traffic-calmed area?

AnswerWalking pace, i.e. 4 to a maximum of 7 km/h.

Pedestrians, including children playing, have priority. Parking only in designated areas.

Connection to practice.

This is how the theme shows up 4 in your driving lesson

In Düsseldorf-Oberbilk you will practice driving in traffic-calmed areas in the Mindenerstraße area, how to behave at the Höherweg railway crossing and how to get into the right lane on Werstener Straße with its bus lanes. Your driving instructor will show you how to recognize St. Andrew's cross and light signals from a distance.

FAQ.

Frequently asked questions on the topic 4

  • Yes - you even have to stop, in front of the stop line or in front of the St. Andrew's Cross. You are only allowed to continue when the red light goes out AND the barrier is open.

Ready to get started?

understand theory. Pass exam.

At driving school S.U.V. In Düsseldorf-Oberbilk you will learn all 14 theoretical topics in an understandable and exam-oriented manner. Mindenerstraße 106 · Mon–Sat · from 5:00 p.m. (Sat 12:00 p.m.) · visit as often as you want.