It's not the blue sign: This is what a play street sign really looks like

Most drivers are probably familiar with the rectangular, blue and white sign with a street, people playing ball and an approaching car. Contrary to many assumptions, however, this does not show a play street, but rather marks a traffic-calmed area, as the Auto Club Europe (ACE) informs.

Play street: What is the correct traffic sign?

Real play streets, on the other hand, are rare. They can be recognized by a round red and white prohibition sign, which is supplemented by a black and white additional sign. This shows a child playing ball.

You are not allowed to drive there by car, e-scooter, motorcycle or bicycle – residents must also comply with this. Parking is also not allowed there. Real play streets are intended for children walking and playing.

In traffic-calmed areas, however, pedestrians and vehicle traffic have equal rights. Cars, bicycles, motorcycles and e-scooters must be driven particularly carefully here – and stop if necessary. They must not hinder or harass pedestrians.

Walking speed applies, and the law is not uniform. The ACE therefore advises not to drive faster than 7 to 10 km/h. Overtaking is taboo. Those walking can use the entire width of the road.

However, the requirement to show mutual consideration still applies to everyone here. Pedestrians must not slow down vehicles unnecessarily. A certain amount of waiting is reasonable, but in principle no road user may hinder another, says the ACE. And the road must not be blocked, for example by children's toys.