Multipurpose strip
Practical examples
Sven Meier, president of the traffic school Zug, gives information about traffic rules and situations. Do you have any questions or uncertainties? Do not hesitate to contact him for accurate information.
Multipurpose lanes are about 3 metres wide, visually highlighted, and located in the middle of the roadway. This road marking is little known in the canton of Zug, although it already exists in certain places. The multipurpose lane assists travellers who are turning left or crossing the carriageway over a wide area.
Characteristics and design
The multipurpose lane can be used by a variety of travellers, regardless of their method of transportation. It should only be used in built-up areas at signalised speeds between 30 km/h and 50 km/h. It is often completely coloured or visually accentuated by means of pavement changes. However, it can also be marked on both sides with a longitudinal line and supplemented with design and construction elements. Furthermore, the multipurpose strip should maintain a constant width over its entire length.
Application areas
Motorists and cyclists who want to turn left into a cross street can use the multipurpose lane as a waiting position before turning. Following vehicles can pass the lane on the right and thus ensure the further flow of traffic. Passing a bicycle or a stationary bus in a bus stop is allowed with the necessary caution.
If there is no pedestrian crossing, pedestrians can cross the road in stages over the entire area. However, this does not mean that they have the right of way over vehicular traffic. Pedestrians should wait for a gap in traffic and seek eye contact with motorists before crossing the road.
How it works
A cooperative approach is required on multipurpose lanes.
For vehicle drivers:
- Drive along the section attentively and at an appropriate speed.
- Keep your distance to allow pedestrians to cross the road.
- Be considerate of pedestrians crossing the road, make eye contact, and use hand signals to indicate the right of way.
- Drive in the middle zone only in exceptional cases or when turning off the road.
- Note that visually impaired people always have the right of way.
- Use caution as oncoming traffic can also use the multipurpose lane at the same time.
For pedestrians:
- Be aware that road traffic has the right of way.
- Stop at the side of the road.
- Wait for a gap in traffic or until motorists allow you to cross the road.
- Make eye contact with drivers.
- Use the middle zone for an intermediate stop.
Benefits
In areas with a multipurpose lane, traffic flows more evenly and pedestrians cross the street in two stages without detours via pedestrian crossings. Furthermore, the multipurpose strips visually narrow the road, causing road users to reduce their speed and pay closer attention.
