Teorio
Right
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When you see the Zeichen
You must follow the direction of the white arrow and drive to the right or turn right at the location to which the sign applies. Move into the correct lane in good time, use your right turn signal and pay particular attention to pedestrians and cyclists when turning.
Rules
- Zeichen 209 makes travelling to the right mandatory.
- Going straight ahead, turning left and making a U-turn are not permitted at the relevant location.
- The sign does not grant priority; all Vorfahrt and turning regulations continue to apply when turning right.
- When turning, you must use your right turn signal clearly and in good time.
- Instructions from police officers take precedence over the traffic sign.
Tips
- Move into the lane designated for turning right at an early stage, without crossing a solid line.
- Reduce your speed before turning and check your mirrors as well as over your right shoulder.
- Watch out for cyclists travelling straight ahead and for pedestrians crossing the road you are turning into.
- Do not confuse the arrow with Zeichen 222: Zeichen 209 prescribes a direction of travel, whereas Zeichen 222 requires you to pass an obstacle on the indicated side.
Common misunderstandings
- Some learner drivers regard the sign merely as an indication. However, as a mandatory sign, it makes travelling to the right compulsory.
- The sign is confused with “Turn right here”: Zeichen 209 announces the prescribed direction, whereas Zeichen 211 emphasises turning immediately at the indicated location.
- Some believe that the instruction automatically gives them Vorfahrt. Zeichen 209 regulates only the direction of travel, not priority.
Exam tip
The typical trap in exam questions is confusing Zeichen 209 with “Pass on the right”. With Zeichen 209, you must follow the prescribed direction of travel to the right; with Zeichen 222, you only have to pass an obstacle on the right.
Did you know
Zeichen 209 belongs to the group of blue circular mandatory signs. Depending on the arrow design, its variants can also indicate other prescribed directions of travel.
Frequently asked questions
Am I still allowed to drive straight ahead at Zeichen 209 if the road is clear?
No. The clear traffic situation does not change the mandatory instruction to travel to the right.
Do I automatically have Vorfahrt when turning right as prescribed?
No. The sign regulates only the direction of travel; Vorfahrt signs, traffic lights and the general Vorfahrt and turning regulations continue to apply.
Do I have to signal despite the sign?
Yes. If you turn right, you must operate your right turn signal clearly and in good time.
What is the difference between Zeichen 209 and Zeichen 211?
Both prescribe a direction to the right. Zeichen 211 “Turn right here” specifically indicates the change of direction to be carried out immediately at this location, whereas Zeichen 209 specifies the direction of travel to the right.
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