Due credit is hereby given to

Her Majesty’s Stationery Office

that kindly gave permission to make use of many ofthe illustrations originally published in

“The Highway Code”

of the United Kingdom of 1999.

Copiled by the Traffic Control Board Section of theMinistry for Transport and Communications incollaboration with the Malta Police Force, Departmentof Licensing and Testing and the Roads Department.

Typesetting and graphics by the Publications Sectionof the Department of Information.

Printed at Dormax PressSeptember 2001

Contents

Page

First Aid on the Road 5

PART I The Road 7PART II The Pedestrian 9

Walking Along 9Crossing the Road 10At Night 12At All Crossings 12Zebra Crossings 13Traffic Lights and Pelican Crossings 13Light Signals Controlling Traffic 15Situations Needing Extra Care 17

PART III Rules for Cyclists 18PART IV Rules for Motorcyclists 22PART V Rules about Animals 24PART VI Rules for Buses 27PART VII The Motorist 28

In the First Place Remember 28Vehicles Towing and Loading 29Tyres 30General 31Exhaust System 32Factory Standard Bumpers 32Loading 32Lights 33Warning Lights 33/34Fitness to Drive 34Eyesight 34Alcohol and Drugs 34Accidents and Breakdowns 35Additional Rules for Arterial Roads 36Accidents InvolvingDangerous Goods 39Moving Off 39

Page

Rules, Techniques and Advice for All Drivers and Riders 40Seat Belts 41Children in Cars 42Driving Along 42One Way Streets 46Overtaking 46Show Consideration 47Mobile Phones and In-car Technology 48In Slow Moving Traffic 48Driving in Built Up Areas 49Changing Direction 49Reversing 51Road Junctions 51Right of Way 53General Advice 542 Second Rule 54Roundabouts 55Stopping and Parking 58At Night 61Designated Tunnels 62Use of Horns 62Road Works 63Additional Rules for High Speed Roads 63Contra flow Systems 64Safety of Pedestrians 64Speed Limits 65Stopping Distances 66/67

APPENDIX I List of Laws and Regulations which Deal with Vehicular and Pedestrian Traffic 70

APPENDIX II Hand and Police Signals 71APPENDIX III Traffic Signs 73APPENDIX IV Vehicle Markings 83

Front to Rear Collision Forms 84

FIRST AID ON THE ROADGUIDANCE FOR THE UNTRAINED

When an accident happens-

Control traffic so as to avoid further accidents (askmotorists and bystanders for help in this).

Move casualty only if there is immediate danger offire from spilled petrol (no smoking) or if danger fromtraffic cannot be averted. Where the casualty mustbe moved, handle with great care, particularly ifbroken bones are suspected or pain in the back iscomplained of.

Stop bleeding with dry dressings or cleanhandkerchiefs and firm manual pressure; bandagefirmly with handkerchiefs or scarf.

Cover burns with dry dressings or cleanhandkerchiefs and bandage with handkerchief orscarf. Get help immediately. Get motorists andbystanders to summon ambulance, doctor, police.Keep casualty lying down and warm. Use rugs orcoats below as well as above.

Do not move casualty if it can be avoided until skilledattention is available.

Do not give anything to drink - alcohol, tea or otherfluid. (Casualty may require anaesthetic at hospital).

BE PREPARED. Carry simple first aid materials inyour car, and learn first aid.

5

PART I

THE ROAD

1. The road is normally made up of a carriageway andone or two sidewalks (pavements). The carriageway ismeant for vehicles and the sidewalks are meant for pedestrians. Outside built-up areas, pavements are generally replaced by hard shoulders usually demarcated by a continuous white line.

2. Carriageways and pavements are primarily intendedfor moving rather than stationary vehicles and pedestrians. Stationary vehicles should not obstruct moving vehicles. Similarly pedestrians should not obstruct pavements.

3. Carriageways are sometimes divided into lanes by means of broken white lines, or into two halves, one foreach direction of traffic, by means of double white lines,continuous or broken. Where no such line is marked anotional line passing through the usable part of the road is deemed to be the dividing line between the two directions of traffic.

4. Dual carriageway roads have a separate carriagewayfor each direction of traffic divided by a centre strip or reservation. No vehicle may use such carriageways against the traffic flow.

5. Traffic islands are meant to assist traffic flow at a junction. Follow the indications given at the approach of such islands.

6. A roundabout is a specific type of traffic island. This is not necessarily circular but is an island designated as such by means of the ‘Roundabout’ sign at its approaches. It is important to look out for such signs as the normal rules of right of way may be modified at roundabouts. Roundabouts may vary in size and methods of construction. From 1-4 metres in diameter,

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they may be painted on the carriageway, or be made of mountable section. Over 4 metres in diameter they will normally be of non mountable construction.

7. Roads in Malta are usually sign-posted by means ofinternational traffic signs, but where there are no signs, the normal rules of prudence and courtesy should be observed.

8. The limits of built-up areas are marked by means of the relative town or village name signpost, or by a specific speed limitation sign. However, any aggregation of houses inhabited or capable of being inhabited by at least one hundred persons constitutes an inhabited area and a maximum speed of 50kph.

9. When a through road is flanked by service roads, sothat building development does not front directly on it, the through road is considered as lying outside the built-up area.

10. As a rule major roads are those designated as suchby means of the ‘Priority Road’ sign and minor roads those with a ‘Stop’ or ‘Give Way’ sign with the appropriate white line painted across the carriageway. If in doubt treat the other road as the major road.

11. As a rule, a road is available to all road users indiscriminately and in both directions, but certain roads are reserved to particular classes of road users or to a particular direction of travel.

12. The road is the place where a person’s real manners, be he a motorist or a pedestrian, are put to the test. Practice road courtesy. Hardly any accidents take place that are not caused or contributed to, directly or indirectly, by lack of road courtesy.

ROAD COURTESY KEEPS DEATH OFFTHE ROAD

8

PART II

THE PEDESTRIAN

13. Pedestrians (as well as motorists) have responsibilities for the proper use of the road. They may be liable for the consequences to themselves or to others through their failure to observe the Law.

Walking along

14. Where there is a pavement or adequate sidewalk, use it. Avoid the casual use of the carriageway (jay walking). It is dangerous to yourself and to others.

15. On a pavement or sidewalk, do not walk on the edge and with your back to the traffic. Do not step intothe road without first ascertaining that you can do so safely.

16. Pedestrians should avoid walking in arterial roads ifno footway or hard shoulder is available.

17. Where no sidewalks or pavements are provided, or where these are inadequate, walk on the right of theroad facing traffic. You must take extra care and be prepared to walk in single file if the road is narrow or the light is bad. Always keep close to the road’s edge. If there is a sharp right-hand bend ahead cross the road early and then oncoming motorists will be able to see you. Cross back again as soon as it is safe to do so. In poor light conditions make sure that you are wearing or carrying something light, and at night wear a reflective armband, jacket etc. Never wear dark clothing at night.

18. Do not under any circumstances walk along the carriageway where this is fenced off from the sidewalk or pavement by means of railings or chains.

19. Do not loiter or linger unnecessarily on the carriageway. Remember that the carriageway is first and foremost meant for the circulation of vehicles.

9

10

20. Groups of people should always walk on the leftside of the road, or on a path. Look-outs should be atthe front and rear, showing lights at night (white at thefront, red at the rear). Look-outs should wear fluorescentclothes during the day, reflective clothes at night.

Crossing the road21. The safe crossing codeThe advice given below on crossing the road is for allpedestrians. Children should be taught the Code andshould not be allowed out alone until they canunderstand and use it properly. The age when theycan do this is different for each child. Many children cannotjudge how fast vehicles are going or how far away theyare. Children learn by example, so parents and carersshould always use the Code in full when out with theirchildren. They are responsible for deciding at what agechildren can use it safely by themselves.

22. First find a safe place to cross. It is safer to crossusing a subway , a footbridge, an island, a zebra(pedestrian crossing) or pelican crossing, or where thereis a crossing point controlled by a police officer, a schoolcrossing patrol or a traffic warden. Otherwise choose aplace where you can see clearly in all directions. Try toavoid crossing between parked cars and on blind bendsand brows of hills. Move to a space where driverscan see you clearly.

23. Stop just before you get to the kerb, where you cansee if anything is coming. Do not get too close to thetraffic. If there is no pavement or sidewalk keep backfrom the edge of the road but make sure you can stillsee approaching traffic and the traffic can see you.

24. Look all around for traffic and listen. Vehicles couldcome from any direction. Listen well, because you cansometimes hear traffic before you see it.

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25. If anything is coming, let it pass. Look all aroundagain and listen. Do not cross until there is a safe gapin the traffic and you are certain that there is plenty oftime. Remember, even if a vehicle is a long way off, itmay be approaching very quickly.

26. When it is safe, go straightacross the road - do not run, donot go on a diagonal. Keeplooking and listening for traffic whileyou cross, in case there is anytraffic you did not see, or in caseother traffic appears suddenly.

At a junction27. When crossing the road, look out for traffic turning intothe road, especially from behind you.

Pedestrian safety barriers28. Where there are barriers, cross the road only wherethere are gaps provided for pedestrians. Never climb overthe barriers or walk between them and the road.

Tactile paving29. Small raised studs which can be felt by the foot maybe used to help tell blind or partially sighted people thatthey are approaching a crossing point with a dropped kerb.

One-way streets30. Always check which way the traffic is moving. Do notcross until you are sure it is safe to do so. Never stop onthe roadway. Bus and cycle lanes may sometimes operatein the opposite direction to the rest of the traffic.

Bus and cycle lanes31. Take care when crossing these lanes as traffic may bemoving faster than in the other lanes, or against the flow oftraffic.

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Routes shared with cyclists32. Cycle tracks may run alongside pavements, with a dividingline segregating the two. Keep to the section for pedestrians.Take extra care where cyclists and pedestrians share thesame path without separation.

Parked vehicles33. If you have to cross between parked vehicles, use theoutside edges of the vehicles as if they were the kerb. Stopthere and make sure you can see all around and that thetraffic can see you. Never cross the road in front of, orbehind, any vehicle with its engine running, especiallya large vehicle, as the driver may not be able to seeyou.

Reversing vehicles34. Never cross behind a vehicle that may be about toreverse or is reversing, showing white reversing lights orhas an audible warning.

Moving vehicles35. You MUST NOT get on or off or hold on to a movingvehicle.

At night36. Wear something reflective to make it easier for others tosee you. If there is no pedestrian crossing nearby, crossthe road near a street light so that traffic can see you moreeasily.

CrossingsAt all crossings37. When using any type of crossing you should:• make sure that the traffic has stopped before you start to cross over or push a pram onto a crossing.

• always cross between the studs or over the zebra markings. Never cross at the side of the crossing or on the zigzag lines.

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You MUST NOT stop on zebra orpelican crossings.

Zebra crossings38. Traffic may need plenty of time to see you and stop ata crossing, and when the road is slippery vehicles will needeven more time. Wait until the road is clear, or traffic hasstopped from both directions before you cross. Keeplooking both ways, and listening, in case a driver orrider has not seen you and attempts to overtake avehicle that has stopped.

39. Never stand on the kerb’s edge at a pedestriancrossing if you have no intention of crossing.

40. Never linger on a pedestrian crossing but cross asquickly as possible.

41. When there is an island in the middle of a pedestriancrossing, wait on the island before you cross the secondhalf of the road - it is a separate crossing.

42. Be careful when stepping on the roadway and claimingright of way at a pedestrian crossing. Wait for gaps in thetraffic especially if there are a few pedestrians and thetraffic has been stopped shortly before.

43. Where there is a pedestrian crossing place (or subway)within a reasonable distance (50 metres or less) do notcross the road at any other point.

At Traffic Lights and Pelican crossings

Traffic lights44. There may be a special set of lights for pedestrians.

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Only start to cross the road when the green figure shows.If you have started to cross the road and the green figuregoes out, you should still have time to reach the other side,but do not delay. If no pedestrian lights have beenprovided, watch carefully and do not cross until the trafficlights are red and the traffic has stopped. Keep lookingand check for traffic that may be turning the corner.Remember that traffic lights may let traffic move in somelanes while traffic in other lanes has stopped.

Pelican crossings45. Push the control button to activate the traffic signals.Whilst the red figure is showing, do not cross. When asteady green figure shows, check the traffic has stoppedthen cross with care. Some crossings may have a greenfigure that will flash as a warning that the lights are toshortly change to red. When the green figure begins toflash you should not start to cross. If you have alreadystarted you should have time to finish crossing safely.

46. At some pelican crossings there is a bleeping soundto indicate to blind or partially-sighted people when thesteady green figure is showing, and there may be a tactilesignal to help handicapped people.

47. When the road is busy, traffic on your side of the roadmay be forced to stop even though their lights are green.Traffic may still be moving on the other side of the road, soalways press the button and wait for the signal to cross.

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R E D m e a n s‘ S T O P ’ . W a i tbehind the stop lineon the carriageway

GREEN means youmay go on if the way isclear. Take special careif you intend to turn leftor right and give way topedestrians who arecrossing.

R E D a n dAMBERa lsomeans ‘Stop’.Do not passthrough or startuntil GREENshows.

Keep the crossing clear

AMBER means‘STOP’at the stopline. You may go ononly if the AMBERappears after youhave crossed thestop line or are soclose to it that topull up might causean accident.

A GREEN ARROW maybe provided in additionto the full green signal ifmovement in a certaindirection is allowedbefore or after the fullgreen phase. If the wayis clear you may go butonly in the direction shownby the arrow. You maydo this whatever otherlights may be showing

FLASHINGA M B E Ralone means‘Proceed withcaution’.

Light signals controlling traffic

48.Traffic Light Signal

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Flashing red lights

STOP when the traffic lights show

ALTERNATIVE flashing RED lights mean YOU MUSTSTOP

GeneralIt is advisable to cross where there is an island in themiddle of the road if there is no pedestrian crossing pointnearby. Use the Safe Crossing Code to cross to the islandand then stop and use it again to cross the second half ofthe road.

Instructions to pedestrians above the push-button-controlfor calling up pedestrian phases at light signals

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49. Do not cross the road either at a crossing or elsewhereagainst a signal to stop by a police officer, traffic warden orschool crossing patrol. You may cross even against thelights if clearly directed to do so, but always cross in frontof them.

Situations needing extra care

Emergency vehicles50. If an ambulance, fire engine, police or other emergencyvehicle approaches using flashing blue lights, headlightsand/or sirens, keep off the road.

Buses51. Only get on or off a bus when it has stopped to allowyou to do so. Watch out for cyclists, etc. approaching inthe near side when you are getting off. Never cross theroad directly behind or in front of a bus; wait until it hasmoved off and you can see clearly in both directions.

Cars52. Be very careful if stepping on to the carriageway toget in or out of a car. Use the kerbside doors whereverpossible. Even though the driver of the car may have touse the offside door, it should always be possible forpassengers to use only the kerbside doors.

Care of children53.Young children should never be trusted alone on eithera pavement or the road. When out, walk between themand traffic, hold their hands firmly, make sure very youngchildren are strapped into push-chairs, or use reins. Donot let them run into the road.

Care of the elderly and the handicapped54.The elderly have slower reflexes and are slow moving.The handicapped especially the blind and those wheelchairbound are particularly vulnerable. They should seek andbe given assistance whenever necessary especially forcrossing the road. The blind should always carry a whitestick.

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PART III

RULES FOR CYCLISTS

Clothing55.You should wear:• a cycle helmet which conforms to current regulations.• the correct clothes for cycling. Do not wear clothes which may become tangled in the chain, or wheel or may hide your lights.• light-coloured or other clothing which helps road

users to see you in daylight and poor light.• reflective clothing and/or accessories (belt, arm or ankle bands) in the dark.

56. At night your cycle MUST have front and rear lights lit.It MUST also be fitted with a red rear reflector (and it isrecommended that you use amber pedal reflectors) Flashinglights and other reflectors may help you to be seen butMUST NOT be used without your lights.

When cycling57. Use cycle paths when provided. They can makeyour journey safer. Take care when passing pedestrians,especially children, elderly or disabled people, and allowthem plenty of room. Always be prepared to slow downand stop if necessary.

Help yourself to be seen

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Cycle lanes58. These are marked by a white line (which may bebroken) along the carriageway. Stay in this lane whereverpossible.

ALWAYS:• cycle on the left side of the road unless using a cycle

lane that is clearly marked for ‘two way’ cycling.• ride in single file on narrow or busy roads.• be considerate of other road users, particularly blind

and partially sighted pedestrians. Let them know youare there by ringing your bell for example.

• keep both hands on the handlebars except when signalling or changing gear.• keep both feet on the pedals.• never ride close behind another vehicle.• never carry anything which will affect your balance

or may get tangled up with your wheels or chain.

59.You should• look all around before moving away from the kerb, turning or manoeuvring, to make sure it is safe to do so. Give a clear signal to show other road users what you intend to do.• look well ahead for obstructions in the road, such as

drains, pot-holes and parked vehicles so that you donot have to swerve suddenly to avoid them. Leaveplenty of room when passing parked vehicles and

watch out for doors being opened into your path.• take extra care near road humps, and other traffic calming features.

60. You MUST NEVER• carry a passenger unless your cycle has been built

or adapted to carry one.• hold on to a moving vehicle or trailer.• ride in an inconsiderate, careless or dangerous manner.• ride under the influence of drink or drugs.• cycle on the sidewalk/pavement.• leave your cycle where it would cause a hazard or

obstruct other road users or pedestrians, for example,lying on the pavement.

• Cross the stop line when the traffic lights are red.

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Bus lanes61. These may be used by cyclists only if the signs includea cycle symbol.

You MUST obey all traffic signs andtraffic light signals.

Road junctions

On the left62. When approaching a junction on the left, watch out forvehicles turning in front of you, out of or into the side road.Do not ride on the inside of vehicles signalling or slowingdown to turn left.

63. Pay particular attention to long vehicles which need alot of room to manoeuvre at corners. They may have tomove over to the right before turning left. Wait until theyhave completed the manoeuvre because the rear wheelscome very close to the kerb while turning. Do not be temptedto ride in the space between them and the kerb.

On the right64. If you are turning right, check traffic behind you, thensignal and move to the centre of the road. Wait until thereis a safe gap in the oncoming traffic before completing theturn. It may be safer to wait on the left until there is a safegap or to dismount and push your cycle across the road.

Long vehicles need extra room

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Dual carriageways65. Remember vehicles on most dual carriageways movemore quickly than on single carriageways. When crossingwait for a safe gap and cross each carriageway in turn.

Roundabouts66. Full details about the correct procedure at roundaboutsare contained in the section on ‘Roundabouts’.Roundabouts can be hazardous and should beapproached with care.

67. You may feel safer either keeping to the left on theroundabout or dismounting and walking your cycle roundon the pavement or verge. If you decide to keep to the leftyou should:

• be aware that drivers may not easily see you.• take extra care when cycling across exits and you may need to signal right to show you are not leaving the roundabout.• watch out for vehicles crossing your path to leave or join the roundabout.

68. Give plenty of room to long vehicles on the roundaboutas they need more space to manoeuvre. Do not ride in thespace they need to get round the roundabout. It may besafer to wait until they have cleared the roundabout.

Crossing the road69. Do not ride across a pelican or zebra crossing.Dismount and wheel your cycle across.

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PART IV

RULES FOR MOTORCYCLISTS

These Rules are in addition to those in the followingsections which apply to all vehicles.

General70. On all journeys no matter how short, the rider andpillion passenger on a motorcycle, scooter or mopedMUST wear a protective helmet. Helmets MUST complywith the Regulations and they MUST be fastenedsecurely. It is also advisable to wear eye protectors,strong boots, gloves and suitable clothing which may helpto protect you if you fall off. Do not be tempted to wearlight weight nylon clothing as friction burns in the event ofa fall are extremely painful. Cover arms and legs at alltimes.

71. You MUST NOT carry more than one pillion passengerand he/she MUST sit astride the machine on a proper seatand should keep both feet on the footrests.

Daylight riding72. Make yourself as visible as possible from all directions.Preferably wear a white or light coloured helmet andfluorescent clothing or strips. Dipped headlights, even ingood daylight, may also make you more easily seen.

Make sure

you can be seen

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Riding in the dark73. Wear reflective clothing or strips to improve yourchances of being seen in the dark. These reflect light fromthe headlamps of other vehicles making you more visiblefrom a long distance.

Manoeuvring74. You should be aware of what is behind and to thesides before manoeuvring. Look behind you; use the fittedmirrors. When overtaking traffic queues look out forpedestrians crossing between vehicles and vehiclesemerging from junctions.

Remember: Observe - Signal - Manoeuvre.

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PART V

RULES ABOUT ANIMALS

HorseridersSafety equipment75. Children under the age of 14 SHOULD ALWAYS weara protective helmet. It SHOULD be fastened securely.It is highly recommended that other riders also follow thisadvice.

Other clothing76. You should wear• boots or shoes with hard soles and heels.• light-coloured or fluorescent clothing in daylight.• reflective clothing if you have to ride at night or in poor visibility.

At night77. It is much safer not to ride on the road at night or intwilight, but if you do, make sure your horse has reflectivebands above the fetlock joints. Carry a light which showswhite to the front and red to the rear.

Riding78. Before you take a horse on to a road, you should• ensure all tack fits well and is in good condition.• make sure you can control the horse.

79. Always ride with other, less nervous horses if youthink that your horse will be spooked by traffic. Never ridea horse bareback on public roads. Before riding off orturning, look behind you to make sure it is safe, then give aclear arm signal.

80. When riding on any road you should• keep to the left.• keep both hands on the reins unless you are

signalling.• keep both feet in the stirrups.

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• not carry another person.• not carry anything which might affect your balance or get tangled up with the reins.• keep a horse you are leading to your left.• move in the direction of the traffic flow in a one-way

street.• never ride more than two abreast, and ride in single

file where the road narrows or on the approach to abend.

81. Horse drawn vehicles should avoid main or busy roadsand keep to the secondary roads. Horses should not beridden or led along main or busy roads.

82. Moreover, you MUST NOT take a horse on to asidewalk, pavement or cycle track but remain on theroadway.

83. Avoid roundabouts wherever possible. If you usethem you should• keep to the left and watch out for vehicles crossing

your path to leave or join the roundabout.• signal right when riding across exits to show you are not leaving.• signal left just before you leave the roundabout.

Dogs and other animals

84. Do not let a dog out on the road on its own. Keep it ona short lead when walking on the pavement, road or pathshared with cyclists.

85. When in a vehicle make sure dogs or other animalsare suitably restrained so they cannot distract you whileyou are driving or injure you if you stop quickly.

86. Make sure that the road is clear before you let or takeanimals on the road.

87. When leading or herding animals they must be keptunder control at all times. Always place yourself between

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the animals and the traffic and keep the animals on theedge of the road. If possible send someone else ahead towarn traffic at danger points such as bends or the brow ofa hill. It is safer not to herd animals after dark, but if you do,carry lights after sunset - white at the front and red at therear. If the herd is very large it should be split into smallerherds and should invariably be tended by two or morepersons. You should not herd cattle, sheep or goats onany main or busy road.

Animal-drawn vehicles88. Drivers of animal-drawn vehicles should follow thesame rules as drivers of other vehicles. They have nospecial privileges because of the fact that their vehicle isanimal-drawn. They should realise the limitations on thedegree of control that they can exercise on their vehiclesand mounts and the possible hazards that can ensue.They should signal their intention manually whenever theypropose to change direction or stop. At night, they shouldensure that their vehicles are provided with front and rearlights as specified.

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PART VI

RULES FOR BUSES

These rules are in addition to those in the following sectionswhich apply to all vehicles.

89. Buses MUST keep to the left or kerbside lane of thecarriageway except when such lane is occupied by astationary vehicle or another obstruction.

90. Buses MUST stop within lay-bys or bus bays wherethese are provided. When two or more buses arrivesimultaneously at a bus stop, they must draw up to thekerb one after the other and in leaving they must follow theorder of arrival. Buses must not cross the white line parallelto the kerb when leaving the bus stop.

91. When stopping at a bus stop, whether it is providedwith the appropriate white lines or not, BUSES MUSTDRAW RIGHT UP TO THE KERB so that passengerscan alight from, or board, the bus directly from the footway.

92. When leaving the bus stop, buses should not swerveout to the middle of the road, but should keep as close tothe kerb as possible.

93. Buses should leave the terminus with their enginesrunning and the gear engaged. The engine MUST be keptrunning for the entire duration of the trip.

94. The engine MUST have sufficient power and beproperly maintained and driven so that it does not emitsmoke when the bus is driven uphill with full load.

95. Neither passengers nor drivers may smoke on anyBus, Coach or Mini Bus.

96. No radio or recorded music may be played on a movingBus, Coach or Mini Bus.

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PART VII

THE MOTORIST

In the first place, remember

97. In Malta, traffic must keep to the left-hand side of theroad.

98. All vehicles on the road must be duly licensed andinsured at least against third-party risks and any persondriving a motor vehicle must be in possession of a currentdriving licence valid for the type of vehicle you wish todrive.

99. Your driving licence must be signed (in ink).

100. Ensure that your vehicle is in a good state of repairand roadworthy in all respects and you are in receipt of aV. R. T. certificate if applicable. Give particular attentionto the brakes, the steering mechanism, the tyres and thelights. Know your vehicle and its limitations. Haveit regularly serviced and inspected.

101. Before hiring out or lending a vehicle, ensure that thevehicle is in a perfectly safe condition and that the persontaking it on charge is in possession of a valid drivinglicense for Malta, as well as being covered by an adequateinsurance policy and fully understands and is capable ofoperating the controls of the particular vehicle.

102. An instructor taking a learner driver for a driving lessonmust ensure that during the lesson the vehicle is providedwith the regulation L-plates securely in place, and that thelearner only drives the vehicle in the place and within thetimes specified in the permit issued in his name.

103. A person who has passed a driving test and obtaineda driving licence should use special caution andcircumspection and avoid heavy traffic for the first few months.A driving licence gives the qualification but not the skill. Thiscomes with the right kind of experience but a driver shouldalways be careful to guard against over-confidence.

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104. Excessive speed increases both the possibility andthe severity of accidents. Overspeeding and impatienceare a sign of poor driving and jeopardise the safety ofinnocent persons. In the short distances normally travelledin Malta, the difference in journey time between a trip atbreakneck speed and a safe and comfortable drive is tobe counted in minutes.

105 The condition of your vehicle, of any trailer it is drawingand of any load, and the number of passengers and theway in which they are carried, are such that they do notendanger yourself or others. In particular, only two personsshould occupy the front seats of vehicles of up to five personscapacity. It is highly recommended that children under 12years should not ride in front seats unless unavoidable,nor should persons carrying children on their lap.

106 Use your vehicle in such a way as to cause the leastpossible inconvenience to others. Ensure that your engineworks efficiently and silently and does not drip oils or emitnoxious exhaust fumes and that your silencer is effective.In residential areas, sound your horn as sparingly aspossible. In areas when the sounding of horns is prohibitedat all times, and in all inhabited areas between 11.00 p.m.and 6.00 a.m., you may only sound the horn in a realemergency.

Vehicles towing and loading107. No driver shall tow any other vehicle unless the towrope or chain be so adjusted that the distance separatingthe nearest points of the motor vehicles shall not exceed4.5 metres and steps shall be taken to render the tow ropeor chain easily distinguishable by other users of the roadby the attachment of a white rag.

108. As a driver• you MUST NOT tow more than your licence permits

you to.• you MUST NOT overload your vehicle or trailer.• Check the weights shown in your car’s handbook.• you MUST secure your load and it MUST NOT stick

out in such a manner as to cause a hazard.

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• when towing a caravan or trailer, the driver is to ensurethat the towing vehicle’s registration number isdisplayed at the rear of the caravan or trailer.

• make sure the weight is evenly distributed in yourcaravan or on your trailer to prevent the possibility ofswerving or snaking and going out of control. If thisdoes happen, reduce speed gently to regain control.

• it is highly recommended that an ‘On Tow’ sign is affixedand clearly visible at the rear of the towed vehicle.

• take all the necessary precautions, such as lights andcautious driving, when towing another vehicle after dark.

Tyres109. Ensure your tyres are suited for the type of vehicleyou are driving, regarding size and speed rating.

110. Note that recut tyres are not permitted on passengervehicles below eight passenger seats and any vehiclebelow 2450kgs unladen weight.

111. Vehicles fitted with tyres marked with a maximumspeed rating, must not exceed the speed so marked.

112. Tyres should be properly inflated. The tread patterndepth minimum of 1.6mm applies for a passenger carryingvehicle with not more than eight passenger seats andgoods or dual purpose vehicles not exceeding 3500kg G.V. W. and 1.0mm tread pattern depth minimum applies forpassenger carrying vehicles with more than eightpassenger seats and goods vehicles over 3500kg.

113. Tyres should not have bulges, cuts, or internal repairsto the carcass.

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114. It is not recommended to mix tyres of a different typeor structure from another on the same axle.

115. A three or four wheeled vehicle fitted with single wheelsmust not have:

• a cross-ply or bias-belted tyre fitted on rear axle andradial-ply tyre fitted on front axle.

• a cross-ply or bias-belted tyre fitted on front axle and aradial-ply tyre fitted on rear axle.

NOTE116. Any tyre ‘type’ mix between different axles isacceptable for vehicles that have

• two axle and twin wheels on the rear axle.

• three axles, one steering and one driving.

NOTE117. This does not apply to vehicles with an axle fittedwith ‘super single’ tyres having a road contact area at least300mm wide.

General118. Ensure all windows and windscreen surfaces shouldbe clean and free of any obstructions. Licences, notices,permits, etc., are only allowed along the upper or loweredge on the left-hand side of the windscreen. Factorystandard wipers or approved replacements should be fullyfunctional and installed. Only factory standard tinted glassis allowed. Spray-on tints for glass are prohibited, as arecurtains (or any similar fitment) used against the rearwindscreen at night. Any alterations or other attachments tothe windscreen must be authorised by the Licensing andTesting Department on request.

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119. Ensure your vehicle is fitted with the appropriatenumber of mirrors to enable you to see traffic behind you.Passenger cars manufactured after 1978 should at leasthave an internal and driver’s side external mirror. However,all vehicles should have preferably an external mirror oneither side so adjusted as to enable the driver to get goodviews on both sides and the rear of the vehicle.

120. Ensure your horn is in working order. No pneumatic(air) horns of any description are allowed.

121. Ensure your speedometer is in working order.

122. Ensure your exhaust system is efficient and its noiseis within the acceptable limits.

123. Only factory standard bumpers are allowed. Ifremoved, there should be no projecting surfaces (e.g.brackets or other parts) or cutting surfaces or edges. Evenif factory options, no extra bars of any section or in anyshape are allowed on any part of the vehicle. In accidentaldamage to the bodywork, projecting and pointed metalsurfaces and edges should be rectified as soon as possibleso as not to constitute danger to pedestrians. Mobile cranejibs should not project forward over 1.5 metres if their tip isless than 3 metres above ground level.

124. The load on your vehicle preferably should be is sosecured that neither danger nor nuisance is caused by itsfalling or shifting or being blown off, and the load heightshould not endanger the stability of the vehicle.

125. Loads should preferably not project to the front. Theyshould not project to the rear by more than 1/5 of the length

Make sure your windscreen is completely clear

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of the vehicle and should not reach the ground. It issuggested that 50 cm square red or yellow boards withtotal or partially reflective surfaces should be fixed at thetips of any load. Loads should not project sideways. Theyalso must in no way hinder the driver’s visibility.

126. The vehicle should have factory standard and/orfactory approved headlamps, with bright/dip facility andproperly adjusted. There should be no covering or colouringof any type over the lenses, and lamps on both sidesshould be working. There should be no light of any kind orfor any purposes above headlamp level, except for specificpurposes approved by the Police. Any extra lights mustnot throw light higher than the standard dipped beam, orelse, must be wired so that they go out when dipped beamcomes on. Any front coloured lights should have only thefunction of indicator/hazard lights, and only amber or orangeis allowed. Side or parking lamps should only be white.

127. At the rear of all vehicles, including any trailer or towedvehicle, beside the number plate lights, there should be redtail (position) lamps and red reflectors: separate red brake(stop) lights of at least twice the intensity of the tail lampsand amber/orange indicator/hazard lights. All indicatorlamps should flash at not less than five times in fiveseconds, and should be clearly visible from 50 metres inbright sunshine.

128. All the above rear lights should be higher thanstandard bumper level and at each extremity. Rear redfog lamps and reversing lights should not be over 21 watts.Reverse lights should be gear-change actuated, and if not,must have a bright dashboard-level warning light. Thereshould be no other lights at all at the rear.

129. All vehicles, except passenger cars up to capacityof five, exceeding any one of the following dimensions, thatis, 2.1 metres width, 2.25 metres height, and 6 metres lenght,in addition should have red lights at the rear, visible fromfollowing vehicles, indicating the four corners of their outline;if over 6 metres length, they must have red lights along thelowest edge of their bodywork, at no longer than 1.5 metreintervals, and of no more than 12 watts.

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130. Any vehicle of an industrial or agricultural nature,including mechanical horses, of any size, shape or type, ifnot factory equipped with lights, should be made to complywith the requirements of the article above, to the satisfactionof the Commissioner of Police. In addition, the vehicle shouldhave an amber/yellow/orange rotating light (blue Police cartype) over the driver’s cabin or at the height, and on theright-hand side of the centre line of the vehicle; the light is tofunction at any time when such vehicle is on the road,whether in use or not.

131. If your vehicle is a road tanker or a vehicleconveying a tank container carrying a prescribedhazardous substance, it must display the required hazardwarning panels and that these are kept clear and freefrom obstruction.

Fitness to drive132. Make sure that you are fit to drive. You MUST reportto the vehicle licensing Department any health conditionlikely to affect your driving.

133. Driving when you are tired or in the heat of a summer’sday greatly increases your accident risk.• If you feel at all sleepy, stop in a safe place.• the most effective ways to counter sleepiness are to

take a short nap (up to 15 minutes) or drink, forexample, two cups of strong coffee. Fresh air, exerciseor turning up the radio may help for a short time, butare not as effective.

Eyesight134. You MUST be able to read a vehicle number platefrom a distance of 20.5 metres (67 feet - about five carlengths) in good daylight. If you need to wear glasses (orcontact lenses) to do this, you MUST wear them at alltimes whilst driving.

135. At night or in poor visibility, do not use tinted glasses,lenses or anything that restricts vision.

Alcohol and drugs136. NEVER DRINK AND DRIVE as it will seriously affectyour judgement and abilities. You MUST NOT drive with

35

a breath alcohol level higher than 35 µg/100ml or ablood alcohol level of more than 80 mg/100ml.

Alcohol will• give you a false sense of your ability to cope.• reduce your co-ordination and slow down your reactions.• affect your judgement of speed, distance and the risks

involved.• reduce your actual driving ability, even if you are below

the legal limit.• take time to work through your body; you may even be

unfit to drive in the evening after drinking atlunchtime, or in the morning after drinking the previousevening. If you are going to drink, arrange anothermeans of transport.

You MUST NEVER drive under the influence of drugsor reaction altering medicine. Check the instructions or askyour doctor or pharmacist. Using banned substances ishighly dangerous. Never take them before driving; the effectsare unpredictable, but can be even more severe than alcoholand may result in serious or fatal road accidents.

It is your duty, whether as a motorist or as apedestrian, to contribute to road safety. Independentlyof the rights and wrongs of the case, it is your duty toavoid an accident if it is within your power to do so.

Accidents and breakdownsBreakdowns137. If your vehicle breaks down• get your vehicle off the road.• if possible give adequate warning to other traffic by

using your hazard warning lights if your vehicle maycause an obstruction.

• if possible put a warning triangle on the road at least50 metres behind your broken down vehicle on thesame side of the road, or use other accepted warningdevices if you have them.

• keep your sidelights on if it is dark or visibility is poor.• do not stand (or let anybody else stand), between

your vehicle and oncoming traffic.

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• at night or in poor visibility do not stand where youwill prevent other road users seeing your lights.

The reflective triangleIt is desireable that all vehicles should carry a reflectivewarning triangle. It should be used at any time of theday outside legal parking areas, in addition to the hazardwarning lights if fitted. It should be set up 50 metres fromthe rear of the obstructing vehicle, on the same side ofthe road, 1 metre away from the edge of the road.

Additional rules for Arterial roads138. If your vehicle develops a problem:• pull on to the hard shoulder or stop as far to the left as

possible, with your wheels turned to the left.• leave the vehicle by the left-hand door and ensure your

passengers do the same. You MUST leave anyanimals in the vehicle or, in an emergency, keep themunder proper control on the verge.

• ensure that passengers keep away from thecarriageway and hard shoulder, and that children arekept under control.

• use a mobile phone if available.• never leave the vehicle unattended longer than is

necessary to reach an emergency phone.• give full details to the police; also inform them if you are

a vulnerable motorist.• return and wait near your vehicle (well away from the

carriageway and hard shoulder).• if you feel at risk from another person, return to your

vehicle by a left-hand door and lock all doors. Leaveyour vehicle again as soon as you feel this danger haspassed.

139. If you cannot get your vehicle off the carriageway onto the hard shoulder:

37

• switch on your hazard warning lights and if possible

place a warning triangle at least 50 metres behind the

broken vehicle.

• leave your vehicle only when you can safely get

clear of the carriageway.

140. Disabled drivers

If you have a disability which prevents you from following

the above advice you should:

• stay in your vehicle.

• switch on your hazard warning lights.

• display a ‘Help’ pennant or, if you have a car or mobile

telephone, contact the emergency services and be

prepared to advise them of your location.

141. If you are involved in an ACCIDENT which causes

damage or injury to any other person or vehicle or to

any animal, YOU MUST STOP. In the case of a front

to rear collision you should exchange information as

requested on the ‘front to rear accident report’. (see

separate Annex)

142. In all other cases the accident must be reported to

the police and the vehicles not moved until the police

accident report is drawn up. When required by the police,

produce your driving licence, certificate of insurance and

log book. The Police may allow you to produce them

within 48 hours at an indicated Police Station.

Warning signs or flashing lights

143. If you see, hear or have reason to believe that

emergency vehicles are in the vicinity be aware there may

be an accident ahead.

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144. When passing the scene of an accident do notbe distracted or slow down unnecessarily (for exampleif an accident is on the other side of a dual carriageway).This may cause another accident or traffic congestion.

145. If you are involved in an accident or stop to giveassistance:

• use your hazard warning lights to warn other traffic.

• ask drivers to switch off their engines and stop smoking.

• arrange for the emergency services to be calledimmediately with full details of the accident location andany casualties. If you use a mobile phone, first makesure you have identified your location.

• move uninjured people away from the vehicles to safety;on an arterial road this should, if possible, be well awayfrom the traffic, the hard shoulder and the centralreservation.

• do not move injured people from their vehicles unlessthey are in immediate danger from fire or explosion.

• do not remove a motorcyclist’s helmet unless it isessential to do so.

• be prepared to give first aid, if you know how to.

• stay at the scene until emergency services arrive.

146. If you are involved in any other medical emergencyyou should contact the emergency services in the sameway.

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Accidents involving dangerous goods.147. Vehicles carrying dangerous goods in packagesshould be marked with plain orange reflective platesaccording to international regulations. Road tankers andvehicles carrying tank containers of dangerous goods willhave hazard warning plates.

148. If an accident involves a vehicle containing dangerousgoods, follow the advice written above and, in particular:

• switch off engines and DO NOT SMOKE.

• keep well away from the vehicle and do not be temptedto try to rescue casualties as you yourself could becomeone.

• call the emergency service and give as much informationas possible about the labels and marking on the vehicle.DO NOT use mobile phone close to a vehicle carryingflammable loads.

Moving off149. Before switching on the engine ensure that you areproperly and comfortably seated and that the seat is firmlylocked in position. Check the setting of your rear and sideview mirrors, and see that both front and rear screens areclean and unobstructed. Do not leave any articles lyingaround which are likely to cause reflections in your field ofvision. Use demisting on both front and rear screens whennecessary. Do not wear shoes or dress which bybeing too loose or too tight-fitting might interfere with youdriving. Protect your eyes from glare if necessary. Polarisedglasses are particularly helpful in bright sunshine. Adopt arelaxed position but do not drive with your arm or handhanging out of the window. Concentrate on your drivingand avoid any distractions.

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Rules, techniques and advice for all driversand riders150. This section should be read by all drivers, motorcyclistsand cyclists. The Highway Code does not give you theright of way in any circumstance, but it advises you whenyou should give way to others. Always give way if it canhelp to avoid an accident.

151. Before you move off, look round, even though youmay have looked in your mirror, to see that no one is aboutto overtake you. Give proper signals before moving out,and only move off when you can do so safely and withoutinconvenience to other road users. Give way to passingand overtaking vehicles.

152. Ensure that the doors are properly closed and, if atnight time, that your lights are on.

153. Try to anticipate what pedestrians and cyclists mightdo. If pedestrians, particularly children, are looking theother way, they may step out into the road without seeingyou.

Check the blind spot before moving off

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Seat belts154. You MUST wear a seat belt if one is available,unless you are exempt. Those exempt from therequirement include the holders of medical exemptioncertificates and people making local deliveries in avehicle designed for the purpose.

Seat belt requirementsThis table summarises the main requirements for wearing seatbelts

*Minibuses with an unladen weight of 2540kg or less

155. You SHOULD wear seatbelts in minibuses with anunladen weight of 2540kgs or less where available. Youshould wear them in large mini-buses and coacheswhere available.

FRONT SEAT(all vehicles)

MUSTbe worn if fitted

Appropriate childrestraint MUST

be worn

Appropriate childrestraint MUST

be worn ifavailable

If not, an adult seat belt MUST

be worn

Adult seat beltMUST be worn

if available

MUST be wornif available

REAR SEAT(cars and small

minibuses*)

SHOULDbe worn if fitted

Appropriate childrestraint SHOULD

be worn ifavailable

Appropriate childrestraint SHOULD

be worn ifavailable. If not,

an adult seatbelt SHOULD beworn if available

Adult seat beltSHOULD be worn

if available

SHOULD beworn if

available

WHO ISRESPONSIBLE

DRIVER

DRIVER

DRIVER

DRIVER

PASSENGER

DRIVER

CHILD under 3years of age

CHILD aged 3to 10 and under1 . 5 m e t r e s(about 5 feet) inheight

CHILD aged 11to 14 or youngerchild 1.5 metresor more in height

PASSENGERover the ageof 14

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Children in cars156. Drivers who are carrying children in cars should ensurethat• children do not sit behind the

rear seats in an estate caror hatchback, unless aspecial child seat has beenfitted.

• the child safety door locks,where fitted, are used whenchildren are in the car.

• children are kept undercontrol.

• a rear-facing baby seat is NEVER fitted into a seatprotected by an airbag.

Driving along157. KEEP WELL TO THE LEFT, except when you intendto overtake or turn right. Do not keep in the middle of theroad. Do not cut corners.

158. Do not drive too close to the vehicle ahead and driveat such a speed that you can pull up in good time if thevehicle ahead makes a sudden move and slows down orstops. The only safe rule is to never get closer than theoverall stopping distance (see typical stopping distancesand the 2 second rule under General Advice)

159. Allow at least a two second gap between you andthe vehicle ahead on fast roads. Double this at least onwet roads, and increase it even further if there is mud onthe road.

Make sure children wear the correct restraint

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160. Remember, large vehicles and motorcycles need agreater distance than cars to stop.

161. When following a vehicle on the open road, leaveenough space in front of you for an overtaking vehicle; whenanother vehicle is overtaking you, do not increase yourspeed.

Lane discipline and carriageway markings162. Where the carriageway is marked out by means ofwhite lines, abide by such lines.

163. Never straddle or cross continuous white dividers,whether double or single, except in the followingcircumstances and only when it is safe to do so:• to reach adjoining premises, unless there is a ‘No Right

Turn’ sign prohibiting the turn.• to enter a side road unless there is a ‘No Right Turn’

sign prohibiting the turn.

164. Broken white lines divide the carriageway into lanesand may be crossed with proper caution and after duenotice to other traffic.

165. A continuous-cum-broken white line may be crossedonly from the side of the broken line, with proper cautionand after due notice to other traffic.

Reflective road studs166. These may beused with white lines.

• White studs (CatsEyes) mark thelanes or the middleof the road.

• Red studs markthe left edge of theroad.

• Amber studs mark the central reservation of a dual carriageway or motorway.

Road traffic markings andreflective road studs

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• Green studs mark the edge of the main carriagewayat lay-bys, side roads and slip roads.

167. Keep well within the traffic lanes. Do not drive overor astride the white lines.

168. Do not keep changinglanes. You MUST use theinner (i.e. left-hand) lane,except when overtaking orturning right. Signal in goodtime your intention to changelane after making sure thatit is safe to do so.

169. Unless there is an emergency do not stop or parkin the outside lane/s of a multi-lane carriageway. Donot remain in the outer lanes of a multi-lane carriagewayfor longer than is necessary unless you wish to turn tothe right and to change to an inner lane would inhibittraffic wishing to continue straight ahead or turn left.

170. Where the Single Carriageway is divided intothree lanes, use the inner (i.e. left-hand) lane exceptwhen overtaking or where there are signs or light signalsdirecting you to use the centre lane. Do not overtake if thecentre lane is already occupied by an oncoming vehicle.

171. Remember you have no more right to use the middlelane than a driver coming from the opposite direction.• do not use the right-hand lane.

172. On a three-lane Divided Carriageway you maystay in the middle lane when there are slower vehiclesin the left-hand lane, but you should return to the left-hand lane, when you have passed them. The right-hand lane is for overtaking (or for right-turning traffic), if

45

you use it for overtaking move back into the middle laneand then into the left-hand lane as soon as you can, butwithout cutting in.

173. On a four-lane Divided Carriageway the sameprinciples apply, that is use the lane as near to the leftas possible, change only one lane at a time and useadditional caution on account of the number of lanes.

Climbing and crawler lanes174. These are provided on some hills. Use this lane ifyou are driving a slow moving vehicle or if there are vehiclesbehind you wishing to overtake.

Cycle lanes175. These are shown by road markings and signs. YouMUST NOT drive or park in a cycle lane marked by a solidwhite line during its times of operation. Do not drive or parkin a cycle lane marked by a broken white line unless it issafe to do so.

Bus lanes176. These are shown by road markings and signs. YouMUST NOT drive or stop in a bus lane during its period ofoperation unless the signs indicate you may do so.

177. When the lanes are marked out by destination orwhen approaching a junction, take your position in time inthe appropriate lane. When necessary give other vehiclesthe opportunity to change lanes.

178. If the lane you are travelling on is crossed by atransverse white line, called a Stop-Line, you must stopwith your front wheels behind the line.

179. Do not drive over obstacle warning lines or stripedislands. Consider these as physical barriers.

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One-way streets180. These are shown by road markings and signs. YouMUST travel or park in the direction indicated by signs.Buses and/or cycles may sometimes have a contraflowlane. Choose the correct lane for your exit as soon as youcan. Do not change lanes suddenly. Unless road signsor markings indicate otherwise, you should use• the left-hand lane when going left.• the right-hand lane when going right.• the most appropriate lane when going straight ahead.

Remember - traffic could be passing on both sides.

Overtaking181. Never overtake unless you are SURE that you cando so without danger to yourself or others. Be speciallycareful at dusk and in mist, when it is more difficult to judgespeed and distance.

Overtake on the right182. This rule does not necessarily apply in the followingcircumstances:• when the driver in front has signalled his intention to

turn right and you can safely overtake him on his leftwithout inconveniencing other traffic, or when you

are filtering to the left at a junction.• in slow-moving congested traffic when vehicles in the

lane on your right are moving more slowly than you are.

Do not cut in too quickly

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183. Before overtaking, give the appropriate signal, makecertain that the vehicle you intend to overtake is aware ofyour intention, keep at a safe but not excessive distancefrom the vehicle being overtaken and return to theappropriate lane or side of the road as soon as practicableafter overtaking. Do not cut in sharply in front of the vehicleyou have just overtaken.

184. DO NOT OVERTAKE at or when approaching:• a pedestrian crossing, pelican crossing or traffic

lights.• a road junction.• a sharp corner or bend.• the brow of a hill.• a hidden dip.

185. DO NOT OVERTAKE• where the road narrows.• when to do so would force another vehicle to swerve or

reduce speed.• when there is not enough space and where the visibility

does not permit you to do so without danger.• when there is a long stream or a convoy of vehicles

ahead of you or a vehicle which is itself alreadyovertaking or if overtaking is otherwise dangerous ordifficult for the time being.

186. Give every facility to other vehicles wanting to overtakeyou. Allow an overtaking vehicle to get back into line. Donot accelerate while being overtaken or obstruct anovertaking vehicle.

Show consideration187. Be careful of and considerate towards other roadusers. You should:• not get flustered if other drivers cause problems; they

may be inexperienced or not know the area well.• be tolerant because anyone can make a mistake.• ignore anyone behaving badly on the road. Involvement

will only make the situation worse. Slow down or stop,

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calm down and when you feel composed, continue yourjourney.

• hold back if a vehicle pulls out into your path at ajunction. Allow it to get clear. Do not over-react bydriving too close behind it.

Concentration helps safe driving.

188. Avoid the distractions of• loud music (this may mask other sounds).• trying to read maps.• inserting a cassette or CD or tuning a radio.• arguing with your passengers or other road users.• eating and drinking.

Mobile phones and in-car technology189. It is your responsibility to exercise proper control ofyour vehicle at all times. Never use a hand mobilephone or microphone when driving. Using handsfree equipment is also likely to distract your attention fromthe road. It is far safer not to use any telephone whileyou are driving - find a safe place to stop first. YouMUST exercise proper control of your vehicle at all times.

In slow moving traffic190. You should:• reduce the distance between you and the vehicle ahead

to maintain traffic flow.• never get so close to the vehicle in front that you cannot

stop safely (see the 2 second rule under GeneralAdvice).

• leave enough space to be able to manoeuvre if thevehicle in front breaks down or an emergency vehicleneeds to get past.

• not change lanes to the left to overtake.• allow access into and from side roads, as blocking these

will add to congestion.

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Driving in built-up areas191. Narrow residential roads.You should drive slowly and carefully especially in roadswhere there are no pavements or sidewalks where thereare likely to be pedestrians, cyclists and parked cars, Insome areas a 35 kph maximum speed limit may be inforce. Look out for:• vehicles emerging from junctions and garages.• vehicles moving off (especially without signalling).• pedestrians using the carriageway.

Changing direction192. Signals alert other road users, including pedestrians,of your intended actions.

193. You should:• give clear signals in plenty of time, after establishing it is

not misleading to signal at that time.• signal, before changing course or direction, either to the

left or right, stopping or moving off.• always check they are cancelled after use.• make sure your signals will not confuse others. If, for

instance you want to stop after a side road, do notsignal until you are passing the road. If you signalearlier it may give the impression that you intend to turninto the road. Your brake lights will warn traffic behindyou that you are slowing down.

Do not block access to a side road

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• use an arm signal to emphasise your signal ifnecesssary. Remember that signalling does not giveyou priority.

194. Also:• watch out for signals given by other road users and

proceed only when you are satisfied that it is safe.• be aware that an indicator on another vehicle may not

have been cancelled.

195. You MUST obey signals given by police officers andtraffic wardens and signs used by school crossing patrols.

196. Before changing direction reduce speed and keep awatch on the traffic behind you by glancing in your mirror.

197. Before changing direction to the left, keep as muchas possible to the left-hand kerb well in advance of theturning. If you wish to turn to the right, steer your vehicle asmuch as it is prudently possible to the centre of the roadwithout, however, encroaching on the other half of the road.Do not swing out to the right before turning left, or vice versa.

198. In roads having more than one lane on each side,never switch abruptly to the right if you are on the left-handlane, nor abruptly to the left if you are proceeding along theright-hand lane.

199. Before changing direction either to the left orright, you must invariably signal your intention toturn well in advance and make sure that it is safe todo so by looking in your mirror. Make sure that yourdirection indicator gives the signal intended and thatit is cancelled immediately after use.

REMEMBER:

USE THE MIRRORS - MAKE A SIGNAL -MANOEUVRE

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Reversing

200. Before you reverse, make sure that there are nochildren or other persons or any obstruction in the blindarea behind you. Remember that when reversing andturning, the front part of your vehicle will protrude further outinto the street.

201. Do not reverse from a side road into a main road,unless it is unavoidable.

202. If your view to the rear is restricted, get help whenreversing.

203. Do not reverse for a greater distance than is absolutelynecessary.

204. Do not reverse on multi-lane carriageways.

Road junctions205. Use extra care at junctions or intersections. Look outfor the relevant traffic signs, traffic lights or carriagewaymarkings and abide by them. STOP at STOP signs. Slowdown and give way at GIVE WAY signs. Where there areno such signs exercise discretion and prudence.

206. Well before you turn at a junction take full account of

Check all round when reversing

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the position and movement of following traffic. Always signalyour intention and, when safe to do so, take up theappropriate position. Wait until there is a safe gap betweenyou and any approaching vehicles before you complete aright turn.

207. On turning at a junction look right, then left, then rightagain. Do not go on until you are sure that it is safe to doso. Do not rely on signals to go ahead given byunauthorised persons.

208. At police-controlled junctions let the police officercontrolling traffic know clearly by your signal which wayyou want to go. Do not filter left when straight ahead trafficis held up unless you receive a signal to do so.

209. When crossing a dual carriageway, treat eachcarriageway separately, and if necessary wait at the centralreservation, if any.

210. When waiting for other traffic at junctions, take upa position where your vehicle will not block other streams

Assess your vehicle’s length and do not obstruct traffic

53

of traffic and, where waiting lines are provided, stopwithin such lines.

211. In a traffic hold-up, NEVER ‘jump the queue’ bycutting into another lane or by overtaking the vehicleswaiting in front of you.

Right of way212. Unless otherwise indicated, traffic on the major roadhas right of way over traffic crossing, joining or leaving themajor road.

213. At an intersection or junction of a major road and aminor road, traffic on the latter road should give way totraffic on or coming off the major road.

214. At the intersection or junction of roads of equivalenttraffic importance, where vehicles approach the intersection

Turning right side to right side Turning left side to left side

Position your vehicle correctly to avoid obstructing traffic

54

or point of junction simultaneously priority should, unlessotherwise indicated, be accorded to vehicles on the right.However, at T-junctions, the through road has priority overthe branch road.

215. Do not carry out any manoeuvre even with the useof signals which may force other traffic to slow down orstop abruptly.

General advice216. You MUST NOT:• drive dangerously.• drive without due care and attention.• drive without reasonable consideration for other road

users.

217. You MUST NOT drive on or over a pavement orsidewalk except to gain lawful access to property.

218. Give instant priority of passage to fireengines, ambulances and police or emergencyvehicles when you hear or see the acoustic or thelight signal of such vehicles approaching yourdirection; in such case, drive to the side of theroad and, if necessary, stop altogether.

219. The 2 second ruleAdapt your speed to keep two seconds travellingdistance behind the vehicle ahead. This may bearrived at by using a pole or other fixed markeras a reference point and counting one hundredand one, one hundred and two before your vehiclereaches the reference marker.

Use a fixed point to help measure a two second gap

55

220. Adapt your driving to the appropriate type andcondition of road you are on. In particular:• do not treat speed limits as a target. It is often not

appropriate or safe to drive at the maximum speed limit.• take the road and traffic conditions into account. Be

prepared for unexpected or difficult situations, for examplethe road being blocked beyond a blind bend. Beprepared to adjust your speed as a precaution.

• where there are junctions, be prepared for vehiclesemerging.

• in side roads and country lanes look out for unmarkedjunctions where nobody has priority.

• when two vehicles going in opposite directions meet ina narrow stretch of road, unless signs indicate otherwise,the one nearest to the wider part of the road MUSTreverse to let the other vehicle pass.

• when two vehicles going in opposite directions meet on ahill, unless signs indicate otherwise, the vehicle going uphillhas priority over the vehicle going downhill.

Roundabouts221. When approaching a roundabout, watch out for trafficalready on it. Take special care to look out for cyclists ormotorcyclists ahead or to the side. Give way to traffic onyour right unless road markings indicate otherwise; but keepmoving if the way is clear. At some junctions there may bemore than one roundabout. At each, apply the normalrules for roundabouts. Keep a special look out for the ‘GiveWay’ signage.

222. Where there are two lanes at the entrance to aroundabout, unless signs or road markings indicateotherwise:

When turning left:Approach in the left-hand lane; keep to that lane in theroundabout.

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When going forward:Approach in the left-hand lane; keep to that lane in theroundabout. If conditions dictate (for example, if the left-hand lane is blocked), approach in the right-hand lane;keep to that lane in the roundabout. If the roundabout itselfis clear of other traffic, take the most convenient lane throughthe roundabout.

When turning right:Approach in the right-hand lane; keep to that lane in theroundabout.

223. When there are more than two lanes at the entranceto a roundabout, unless signs or road markings indicateotherwise, use the clearest convenient lane on approachand through the roundabout suitable for the exit you intendto take.

224. When in a roundabout, look out for and showconsideration to other vehicles crossing in front of you,especially those intending to leave by the next exit. Showparticular consideration for cyclists and motorcyclists.

Signals at roundabouts225. When turning left:Use the left turn indicator on approach and through theroundabout.

Signals at roundabouts

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When going forward:Use the left turn indicator when passing the exit before theone to be taken.

When turning right:Use the right turn indicator on approach, and maintain thissignal until passing the exit before the one to be taken.Then change to the left turn indicator.

226. Watch out for cyclists and motorcyclists and give themroom. Allow for long vehicles which may have to take adifferent course, both on the approach to and in theroundabout.

Mini-roundabouts227. These should be approached in the same way asnormal roundabouts. All vehicles MUST pass round thecentral markings except large vehicles which may bephysically incapable of doing so.

228. At double mini-roundabouts treat each roundaboutseparately and give way to traffic from the right.

Multiple roundabouts.

229. At some complex junctions, there may be a series ofmini-roundabout at the intersection. Treat each mini-roundabout separately and follow the normal rules.

230. Do not take your right of way for granted if you havereason to suspect that the other vehicle is not concedingpriority. You should still take the necessary action to avoidan accident.

Treat eachroundaboutseparately

58

231. IF YOU ARE IN DOUBT - GIVE RIGHT OF WAY

Stopping and Parking232. Do not park or let your vehicles stand:

• where there is a parking prohibition.

• at or within 5 metres of a road junction.

• near a bend or the brow of a hill .

• on a footway, unless otherwise authorised.

• on or within 4 metres of a pedestrian crossing, from theside of oncoming traffic or within the limits of zig- zag lineson the approach side of the crossing.

• in a tunnel or under a bridge.

• in a main road or in a road carrying fast moving traffic, ifsuch parking or standing affects the smooth flow of traffic.

• opposite or nearly opposite another standing vehicle, arefuge or other obstruction.

• alongside a stationary vehicle (double parking).

• within 12 metres on each side of any bus stop or farestage.

• near a school or a hospital or doctors’ entrance or whereit will obscure a traffic sign.

• on the wrong side of a badly lit road at night.

• with the headlights on at night time.

• in such a position as to obstruct other parked vehicles.

• on traffic islands delineated by painted diagonal lines.

• in such a way as to impede access into or exit out of agarage.

233. Trailers and all vehicles with projecting loads, SHOULDNOT be left on a road at night without lights.

234. You MUST NOT park in spaces reserved for specificusers, such as Blue Badge holders or residents, unlessyou are eligible to do so.

59

235. DO NOT park partially or wholly on the pavementunless there are signs that permit it. Parking on thepavement can obstruct and inconvenience pedestrians,people with prams or pushchairs or wheelchairs and thevisually impaired.

Controlled Parking Zones236. The zone entry signs indicate the times when thewaiting restrictions within the zone are in force.

Goods vehicles237. Vehicles with a maximum laden weight of over 7.5tonnes (including any trailer) SHOULD NOT be parked ona verge, pavement or any land situated betweencarriageways, without police permission. The only exceptionis when parking is essential for loading and unloading, inwhich case the vehicle SHOULD NOT be left unattended.

Loading and Unloading238. Do not load or unload where there are yellow markingson the road or upright No Parking signs which adviserestrictions are in place.

239. You should park parallel to the kerb, unless there areparking bays which indicate otherwise. Motorcycles,however, should be parked at an angle not less than 45o

to the kerb.

Enter a box junction only if your exit road is clear

60

Parking on hills240. If you park on a hill you should:• park close to the kerb and apply the

handbrake.• select a forward gear and turn your

steering wheel away from the kerb whenfacing uphill.

• select reverse gear and turn your steeringwheel towards the kerb when facingdownhill.

• use ‘park’ if your car has an automaticgearbox.

Police stopping procedures241. If the police want to stop your vehicle they will, wherepossible, attract your attention by:

• flashing blue lights or headlights or sounding their siren or horn.• directing you to pull over to the side by pointing and/

or using the left indicator.

242. You MUST then pull over and stop as soon as it issafe to do so. Then switch off your engine.

Normal stopping procedures243. Before stopping, signal your intention to do so ingood time and when you draw up, pull in as close aspossible to the kerb or edge of the road. Be sure that theengine is switched off, the hand-brake set securely andthe gear is put in low or reverse before you leave the car(use ‘park’ if your car has an automatic gearbox). On anincline, turn the front wheels towards the kerb.

Check before openingyour door

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244. In disc zones, set the disc and display it in a prominentplace on the dashboard.

Lights245. At night always drive well within the limits of yourlights so that you may stop in time if necessary.

246. Use dipped headlights at night in built up areas.

247. On unlit roads always use headlights. When meetingother vehicles and cyclists dip the headlights. If you aredazzled, slow down or stop. Extra lights may not be fitted,spot lights may only be operative when full beam is selected.Reverse lights may only work when reverse gear is selectedor a separate dash board warning light shows when thereverse lights are on.

248. When driving behind another vehicle, dip theheadlights.

249. Your vehicle’s lights enable you to see and be seen.In daytime, whenever visibility is poor, switch on your lightsand in mist use fog lights, if available and/or dippedheadlights. Bright headlights reduce visibility in fog.

250. Never use your hazard warning lights when the vehicleis in motion unless reasonably required, such as anemergency.

251. All motor vehicles shall have stop lights, rear viewmirror and direction indicators fitted. The direction indicatorsare to be so fitted as to be clearly visible from the front andfrom the rear. Motor vehicles, except motor cycles, shallhave windscreen wipers. These fittings shall be maintainedin good working order.

252. Red reflectors should only face to the rear. Headlightsmay be white or yellow. Side lamps show a white light to

62

the front (or yellow if incorporated in a yellow headlamp).A rear lamp shows a red light to the rear.

253. Be sure your lights are on during lighting-up time, i.e.between sunset and sunrise and when visibility is limiteddue to weather conditions. See that your front and rearlamps and rear registration plate lamps are alight at night.

254. Pay attention to red warning lanterns or red reflectingtriangles placed on the road; the road may be obstructedor an accident may have taken place.

255. If another driver flashes his headlights never assumethat it is a signal to go. Use your own judgement andproceed with care.

256. When approaching a junction or when overtakinganother vehicle during lighting up time, flash your headlightsto give notice of your approach or manoeuvre - like soundingyour horn, it lets another road user know you are there.

257. If an oncoming vehicle has undipped headlights youmay attract its driver’s attention by flashing for an instantbut do not keep your headlights on in retaliation.

Tunnels258. When driving through tunnels in Malta it is obligatoryto:• use lights.• obey the speed limits shown.• stay in lane through the entire length of the tunnel.

Use of horns259. Horns give notice of your presence or approach, butdo not give you any special rights. Use your horn sparinglyand when necessary.

63

260. In built-up areas and especially at night, horns shouldbe used only in an emergency.

261. Horns should be efficient and not cause any nuisance.Car radios or stereos should be used at a volume whichwill not inconvenience others and which will not impair thedriver from hearing or driving properly. Drivers should notuse headphones or anything else that may prevent themfrom hearing or driving properly.

Road works262. When the ‘Road Works Ahead’ sign is displayed,you will need to be more watchful and look for additionalsigns providing more specific instructions.

• You MUST NOT exceed any temporary maximumspeed limit.

• Use your mirrors and get into the correct lane for yourvehicle in good time and as signs direct.

• Do not switch lanes to overtake queuing traffic.• Do not drive through an area marked off by traffic cones.• Watch out for traffic entering or leaving the works area,

but do not be distracted by what is going on there.• Bear in mind that the road ahead may be obstructed

by the works or by slow moving or stationary traffic.

Additional rules for high speed roads263. Take special care on arterial and other high speeddual carriageways.• One or more lanes may be closed to traffic and a lower

speed limit may apply.• Works vehicles that are slow moving or stationary with

a large ‘Keep Left’ or ‘Keep Right’ sign on the back aresometimes used to close lanes for repairs.

• Check mirrors, slow down and change lanes ifnecessary.

• Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front.

64

Contraflow systems264. This means that you may be travelling in a narrowerlane than normal and with no permanent barrier betweenyou and oncoming traffic. The hard shoulder may be usedfor traffic, but be aware that there may be broken downvehicles ahead of you. Keep a good distance from the vehicleahead and observe any temporary speed limits.

Safety of Pedestrians265. When approaching a PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGalways be ready to slow down or to stop so as to giveway to pedestrians; give them the right of way on thesecrossings. Signal to other drivers your intention to slowdown or to stop. Allow yourself more time to stop whenthe road is wet or downhill.

266. DO NOT pass a vehicle which has stopped orslowed down at a PEDESTRIAN CROSSING.

267. At pedestrian crossings controlled by light signals orby the police, give way to any pedestrian who is stillcrossing when the signal to move is given.

268. Watch for the pedestrian who comes out suddenlyfrom behind stationary vehicles or other obstructions. Bespecially careful of this near schools and bus stops.269. When turning at a road junction give way topedestrians who are crossing. On country roads watchout for pedestrians and give them plenty of room especiallyon left-hand bends.

270. Most pedestrians killed or seriously injured are eitherunder 15 or over 60. The young and the elderly may notjudge speed very well and may step into the road whenyou do not expect them. Watch out for blind people whomay be carrying white sticks (white with two red reflectorisedbands for deaf/blind people) or using guide dogs, and forthe disabled or infirm. Give them plenty of time to cross theroad. Remember that deaf people may not hear yourvehicle approaching.

65

271. Take special care near children’s play areas, aschildren at play may dash across the road without warning(such as to chase a ball).

272. Speed Limits

Built-up areas Elsewhere Unless otherwise Unless otherwise indicated indicated

Type of vehicles Km/h Km/h

Cars and motorcycles 50 80

Buses and coaches(not exceeding 12 mtrsin overall length) andlight commercial vehicles up to 3 tonnes 40 60

Goods vehicles(exceeding 3 tonnesmaximum laden weight) 30 40

Industrial andagricultural vehicles(including vehicleson tow) 20 30

273. These are absolute maximum speeds, but there arenumerous situations where prudence demands a lowerspeed in view of road surface and configuration, weatherconditions, traffic density and presence of pedestrians orother hazards.

274. Driving at speeds too fast for the road and trafficconditions can be dangerous. You should always reduceyour speed when:• the road layout or condition presents hazard, such as

bends.• sharing the road with pedestrians and cyclists,

particularly children, and motorcyclists.• driving at night as it is harder to see other road users.

66

275. Any of the above speeds may be restricted byappropriate traffic signs. Ambulances, fire-engines, policecars and other emergency vehicles, using the siren andflashing light or other appropriate signal are exempt fromthe above speed limits.

276. Unless there are sufficient reasons to thecontrary, do not drive at a speed below the averagespeed of the general traffic flow at the particularplace and time.

277. Do not hold up a long queue of traffic. If you aredriving a large or slow-moving vehicle and the road is narrowor winding, or there is a lot of traffic coming towards you,you MUST pull in where you can do so safely so thatother vehicles can overtake.

Stopping distances278. Never drive at such a speed that you cannot pull upwithin the distance that you can see to be clear. Rememberthat your visibility is reduced at corners and over the crestsof hills, and that your braking distance is greater downhill orwhen the road is wet or slippery.

279. You should:• leave enough space between you and the vehicle in

front so that you can pull up safely if it suddenly slowsdown or stops. The safe rule is never to get closer thanthe overall stopping distance (see Typical StoppingDistance diagram on page 69).

Look out for motorcyclysts at juntions

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• allow at least a two-second gap between you andthe vehicle in front on roads carrying fast traffic. Thegap should be at least doubled on wet roads andincreased still further on muddy roads.

• remember, large vehicles and motorcycles need a greaterdistance to stop.

280. You need a certain time to react in an emergency.Your reactions are slower if you are tired, sleepy, dazzledor if your faculties are in any way impaired. If you feel anysigns of strain, slow down and double your caution, and ifnecessary stop at the first suitable place until you arerested.

281. Shortest Stopping Distances - in metres

Kmh Thinking Braking Overalldistance distance stopping(metres) (metres) distance

(metres)

32 6 6 12 50 9 14 23 64 12 24 36 80 15 38 53 94 18 55 73110 21 75 96

282. On a dry road, a good car with good brakes andtyres and an alert driver will stop in the distances shown.

283. Remember these are the shortest stopping distances.Stopping distances increase greatly with wet and slipperyroads, poor brakes and tyres, and a tired driver.

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Skids284. Skidding is caused by the driver braking, acceleratingor steering too harshly or driving too fast for the roadconditions. If skidding occurs, ease off the brake oraccelerator and try to steer smoothly in the direction of theskid. For example, if the rear of the vehicle skids to theright, steer quickly and smoothly to the right to recover.

Rear of car skids Rear of car skids to the right to the left

69

Typi

cal S

topp

ing

Dis

tanc

es

48 k

mh

80 k

mh

96 k

mh

112k

mh9

met

res

14

met

res

6 m

etre

s 6

met

res

12 m

etre

s

24

met

res

15 m

etre

s

3

8 m

etre

s

18 m

etre

s

55

met

res

21m

etre

s

75

met

res

32 k

mh

= 1

2 m

etre

sor

3 c

ar le

nght

s

64km

h=

36

met

res

or 9

car

leng

hts =

53

met

res

or13

car

leng

hts

= 9

6 m

etre

sor

24

car l

engh

ts

aver

age

car l

engt

h =

4 m

etre

s

= 2

3 m

etre

sor

6 c

ar le

nght

s

= 7

3 m

etre

sor

18

car l

engh

ts

Bra

king

Dis

tanc

e

Thi

nkin

g D

ista

nce

70

APPENDIX I

LIST OF LAWS AND REGULATIONS WHICH DEALWITH VEHICULAR AND PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC

• Code of Police Laws, Part III (Cap. 10).

• Traffic Regulation Ordinance (Cap. 65).

• Motor Vehicles Insurance (Third-Part Risks) Ordinance (Cap. 104).

• Motor Vehicles Regulations, 1994.

• Traffic Signs and Carriageway Markings Regulations,1969.

• Motor Tractors Regulations, 1979.

• Motor Vehicle Roadworthiness Test Regulations, 1998.

Most of these Regulations have been amended.

71

This signal should be used also when slowing down orstopping at a pedestrian crossing

“I intend to MOVE OUTor TURN to my RIGHT”

“I intend to SLOWDOWN or STOP”

Arm signals

SIGNALS TO OTHER ROAD USERS

“I intend to MOVE OUT or TURNto my RIGHT”

Reversing light signals

“I am applying the BRAKES” “I intend to REVERSE”

“I intend to MOVE IN or TURNor STOP to my LEFT”

Brake light signals

“I intend to PULL INor TURN to my LEFT”

Direction indicator signals

APPENDIX II

HAND AND TRAFFIC LIGHT SIGNALSThese signals should be given by motor cyclists, pedalcyclists and those in charge of animal-drawn vehicles. Theymay also be given by drivers of other motor vehicles, but inthis latter case they are not compulsory unless the lightsignal is at the moment out of order.

72

SIGNALS TO POLICE OFFICERS CONTROLLING TRAFFIC

The left turn and right turn hand signals may be given if themechanical or flashing indicator is at the moment out of order.

Carry On

From the side From behind

Traffic approachingfrom behind

Traffic approachingfrom bothfront and behind

Traffic approachingfrom the front

“I want to goSTRAIGHT ON”

“I want toTURN RIGHT”

“I want toTURN LEFT”

Stop

POLICE SIGNALS

From the front

73

APPENDIX III

TRAFFIC SIGNS

In Malta, traffic signs are based on the United NationsOrganisation Protocol and are in international use.

Basically, the code consists of three categories of signs- Warning, Regulatory and Informative, each categoryhaving its characteristic shape, colour and format, with themessage of the sign condensed pictorially into a symbol.In appropriate cases, the message may be supplemented,or its applicability defined, by means of a short inscriptionon a small plate appended to the traffic sign.

Slight local variations, as long as they are consonantwith the spirit of the above code, are allowed, and some ofthe traffic signs in Malta do in fact contain such variation.Traffic signs are generally reflectorised so as to show upunder headlights at night.

While Warning and Informative Signs are meant for thehelp and guidance of motorists, Regulatory signs imposedefinite obligations. Regulatory signs may be either• Prohibitory, i.e. forbidding certain manoeuvres, or• Mandatory, i.e. imposing certain manoeuvres.

The prohibition may be either immediate, in which caseit applies to a single point or contingency and its applicabilityterminates immediately, or continuous when its applicabilityis in force for a stretch of road or area and carries on until itis lifted by another sign to this effect.

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Dangerous bends

Bend toleft

Bend toright

S-bend onleft

Series ofbends

S-bend onright

Intersection with Roads of Equal Importance

Crossroads T-junction Side roadon left

Side roadon right

Traffic lightsahead

Intersection with Major Roads

Crossroads T-junction Roundabout

Intersection with Minor Roads

Crossroads Staggeredjunction

first on left

Side roadon left

Side roadon right

Staggeredjunction first

on right

Give way(on major

roads)

Roadnarrows on

left

Roadnarrows on

right

Dualcarriageway

ends

Give Way(in advance)

INTERNATIONAL TRAFFIC SIGNS BASED ONVIENNA CONVENTION 1968

Make sure you understand and obey all traffic andinformation signs and road markings.

WARNING SIGNS

75

Road Hazards

Roadnarrows

Steep hilldownwards

Steep hillupwards

Slipperyroad

Quaqside

Unevenroad

Roadhumps

Electricitycable

Two-Waytraffic ahead

Tunnel

Otherdanger

Hazard atroad’s edge

Sharp deviationof route to left

(or right ifchevronsreversed)

Live Hazards

Pedestriancrossing(advance

sign)

Roadworks

Elderlypeople

Children(school)

Pedestriansin roadahead

Low flyingaircraft

Stables Horseriding

Agriculturalvehicles

REGULATORY SIGNS

Prohibitory - Direction

No leftturn

No rightturn

NoU-turn

All vehiclesprohibitedfrom eitherdirection

except foraccess

Schoolcrossing

patrol

No entryfrom this

side

76

Prohibitory - Special Categories

Nobicycles

No motorvehicles

No heavyvehicles

No horse-drawn

vehicles

Nopedestrians

No motorcycles

Nopoweredvehicles

No horseriding

Widthlimit

Heightlimit

Lengthlimit

Weightlimit

Axleweight

Prohibitory - Operation

Speed limit End ofspeed limit

Nationalspeed limit

appliesEntry to

zone limitEnd of

zone limit

Noovertaking

End of noovertaking

Noovertakingby heavyvehicles

End of noovertakingby heavyvehicles

No throughroad forvehicles

(cul de sac)

No throughroad for

vehicles onleft (cul desac on left)

No hornblowing

End of nohorn

blowing

No waiting Nostopping

77

Mandatory - Operation

Stop Priority overcrossing

traffic

Give wayto crossing

traffic

End ofpriority

Give way totraffic fromoppositedirection

Priority overtraffic fromoppositedirection

Minimumspeed limit

End ofminimum

speed limit

Pedestriancrossing(position

sign)

Route tobe usedby pedal

cycles only

Segregatedpedal cycle

andpedestrian

routeBuses andcycles only

FootwayBus stops

Fare Stage No waiting at any time

No waitingat the timeindicated

No waitingexcept for

loading andunloading

No heavy vehicles except to render aservice (or owners residing) in this street

No vehiclesexcept for

loading

No entry except for loading No entry or waiting except for school transport

78

Mandatory - Direction

Go straightahead

Go left Go right Turn left Turn right

Vehiclesmay passeither side

Keep left Go left orright

Keep right Go straightor left

Go straightor right

Roundabout One waydirection

Plates

Start ofprohibition

End ofprohibition

Continuityprohibiton

AT 300 METRES STOP100 m

GIVE WAY50 m

FOR 2 KILOMETRES

Distance plates

7.00 A.M. - 6.00 P.M. 15 MINUTES

Time plate Time plate(period)

School ElderlyPeople

Handicapped No footwayfor 400 m

Patrol

Playground Blind Safe height5 m

Exception for access topremises and land

adjacent to the road wherethere is no alternative route

EXCEPT ACCESSFOR RESIDENTSAND GARAGES

Message Signs

t

t

t

s

Plate with anexplanotary note

79

General

Contra flow buslane

Accidentblack spot

Bus laneon road at

junction aheadTow zone

Clamping zone Area in whichcameras are

used toenforce trafficregulations

Dippedheadlights

Headlightsoff

Throughtunnel

INFORMATIVE SIGNS

Official Signs

Parkingplace

Parking placeto the left

Parking placeto the right

Blue stickerbadge holders

Vehiclesmay beparked

partiallyon the

verge offootway

End of areawhere

vehiclesmay beparked

partially onthe verge

of footway

Vehiclesmay beparked

partially onthe verge of

footwayduring the

periodindicated

Restricted parking

Parking forpermitholders

Place nameRoute sign

80

Other Official Signs

Advance direction signs

Touristic Signs

Place name

Route sign

CARRIAGEWAY MARKINGS

Longitudinal Lines

Continuous white line(centre line)

Double continuouswhite line

Broken white line(lane line)

Carriageway boundary line(white line)

81

Continuous-cum-brokenline

(Ed

ge

of

Ca

rria

ge

wa

y)

(Ed

ge

of

Ca

rria

ge

wa

y)

No stopping No waiting

Transverse Lines

Stop line Give way line

Give way line Box junction

Box junction. Where there is a likelihood thatstationary traffic could block a road junction a yellowbox may be marked on the road. You must not enterthe box if your exit is not clear, except when you wantto turn right and are only prevented from so doingoncoming traffic or other stationary vehicles waitingto complete a right turn.

Pedestrian crossing

Pedestrian crossing

Road markings at roundabout

The upright signand triangle on theroad are not usedat junctions wherethere is relativelylittle traffic

Road markings at roundaboutshowing: (a) the normal ‘Give Way’rule to traffic on the immediate right, and(b) special priority to trafficapproaching the roundabout

‘Give Way’line

Hazardwarning line

82

No waiting during timesshown in sign

No waitingat any time

Used withsign

Associatedwith various

hazards

May be usedwith upright

signs

Do not blockthat part of the

carriagewayindicated

Indication ofa compulsory

movement(turn left orahead only

may be shown)

Waiting is limited to thetimes and duration

shown

Do not stop or wait on the markings – not even to pick up or set downchildren or other passengers

Other Markings

Bus stop bays

Direction arrowsObstacle warning lines

Parking bays (park within the lines whenever practicable)

Worded Markings

83

Large Goods Vehicles Rear Markings

APPENDIX IV

VEHICLES MARKINGS

Projection Markers

Side marker End marker

Motor vehicles over 7500 kilograms maximum gross weight and trailers over3500 kilograms maximum gross weight.

School bus(displayed infront or rearwindow of

bus orcoach)

The vertical markings are also required to be fitted to builders’ skipsplaced in the road, commercial vehicles or combinations longer than 13

metres (optional on combinations between 11 and 13 metres)

Hazard Warning Plates

Certain tank vehicles carrying dangerous goodsmust display hazard in formation panels

Non-flammablecompressed gas

Radioactivesubstance

Spontaneouslycombustablesubstance

Corrosivesubstance

Toxicsubstance

Oxidisingsubstance

The panel illustrated is for flammable liquidDiamond symbols indicating other risks include:

Both required when load or equipment(eg crane jib) overhangs front or rear by

more than two metres

84

HOW TO USE THESE FORMS INFRONT-TO-REAR COLLISIONS

Each driver who is involved in a front-to-rear collision, shouldfill and exchange a copy of this form. In this way, eachdriver will have enough information regarding the identity ofthe other driver, his insurance and the circumstances in whichthe accident occurred. If a driver does not do so, he will bebreaking the law.

In the Maltese Islands, a policeman should always becalled on site, except in the case of a front-to-rear collision.A policeman should also be present in the case of injuriesor when government property is involved. The Police canbe contacted on telephone number 224001, or at thenearest Police Station.

At the scene of the accident

1. Although each driver is supposed to have a copyof this form in his car, only one Statement of Factsis to be used, and it does not matter which one iscompleted. When the accident involves more thantwo vehicles, a second form should be used.

2. The Statement of Facts is self-carbonised. Preferablvusing a ball-point pen, complete fully either the yellowor the green part of the Statement of Facts. Theother driver is to complete the other coloured sectionpertaining to the second vehicle. Obviously bothdrivers will need to refer to their insurance certificatesand driving licences.

3. Get details of all witnesses before they leave.Complete question 5.

4. When you are satisfied with the accuracy of thestatement. sign it and have it signed by the otherdriver (15). Keep one copy and hand the other tothe other driver.

85

5. Don’t forget to:

(a) mark clearly under (10) the point ofinitial impact.

(b) tick ( ) in each appropriate squareon your side (numbers 1 to 7) insection 13 and state the totalnumber of spaces marked.

(c) Draw a plan of the accident location(14) showing all the informalionindicated.

6. It is advisable to keep a disposable camera inyour car. In this way, you will be able to takephotographs of the collision so as to have betterproof.

When you return home

(1 ) Fully complete the Motor Accident Report on theback of your version of the Statement of Facts.This is your own report to your insurers, and incase of need, your insurance company will helpyou fill in this report.

(2) Immediately inform your insurer about theaccident and deliver this form to them whichincludes (i) the Statement of Facts and (ii) MotorAccident Report.

86

87

By reading and following the rules ofThe Highway Code you can help reduce thenumber of deaths and injuries on our roads

DEPARTMENT OF INFORMATION