General rules of conduct

Chapter Summary: General Rules of Conduct

A driver's primary responsibility is to operate their vehicle with care, ensuring the safety of all road users and avoiding any action that could hinder traffic flow. A major aspect of this is avoiding distractions. While hands-free mobile phone use is legally permitted, it still significantly diverts a driver's attention. It is always safest to pull over to a secure location to handle calls or adjust a GPS, which should be mounted so it doesn't obstruct vision. Eating, drinking, and other in-car activities also pose serious risks and should be avoided while driving.

Maintaining a roadworthy vehicle is a legal requirement. Vehicles must not exceed established limits for noise and emissions, and driving a vehicle with excessive smoke or without a functioning exhaust silencer is prohibited. Traffic officers can immobilize non-compliant vehicles. Modifications such as tinted films or curtains on rear windows are only permissible if the vehicle is equipped with two exterior rear-view mirrors. Simple maintenance, like changing cabin filters, also contributes to a safer driving environment.

On the road, drivers must interact predictably and safely with others. This includes maintaining a steady speed for fuel efficiency and safety, and respecting the priority of pedestrians at crossings. Special caution should be exercised around vulnerable road users like the elderly and cyclists. Prohibited actions include throwing any object from a vehicle, which can result in fines and point deductions, and using the horn for any reason other than to prevent an accident.

In case of a breakdown, a driver must immediately warn others by activating hazard lights and deploying a V-16 emergency light on the highest part of the vehicle. On motorways, occupants must remain inside their vehicle for safety. If cargo falls onto the roadway, it must be marked and removed as quickly as is safely possible. Finally, specific rules like switching off the engine, lights, and all electronics during refueling must be strictly followed to prevent accidents.