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Pedestrians
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When you see the Zeichen
Expect pedestrians to enter or cross the carriageway, and pay particularly close attention to the edges of the carriageway and any possible obstructions to your view. Adjust your speed so that you can stop safely within the distance you can see to be clear. Be ready to brake if necessary and keep a sufficient lateral distance.
Rules
- Zeichen 133 warns of a location where pedestrians should be especially expected on or near the carriageway.
- The sign does not by itself prescribe a specific maximum speed; however, your speed must be adapted to the apparent hazard and the visibility conditions.
- Zeichen 133 does not give pedestrians automatic priority when crossing the carriageway.
- The sign indicates neither a Fußgängerüberweg nor a mandatory footpath.
- Outside geschlossene Ortschaften, Gefahrzeichen are usually placed 150 to 250 metres before the hazard; a different distance may be indicated by a Zusatzzeichen.
Tips
- Take your foot off the accelerator early and keep your foot ready over the brake if people are visible at the edge of the carriageway.
- Pay particular attention to pedestrians who might emerge from between parked vehicles, behind bushes or from driveways.
- Watch both sides of the carriageway, as pedestrians can also cross the road outside marked crossing points.
- Only overtake at the hazard location if pedestrians can be safely ruled out and the entire situation is clearly visible.
Common misunderstandings
- Zeichen 133 is confused with Zeichen 350 for a Fußgängerüberweg. The warning sign alone does not mark a zebra crossing.
- Some learner drivers assume that a fixed speed limit applies. Instead, the sign requires a speed adapted to the specific hazard.
- The symbol is mistakenly understood as a footpath sign. A mandatory footpath is indicated by the round blue Zeichen 239.
Exam tip
In exam questions, pay attention to the distinction from a Fußgängerüberweg: Zeichen 133 calls for increased attention and an adapted speed, but by itself establishes neither a duty to wait nor automatic priority for pedestrians.
Did you know
The StVO contains no special verbal instruction on conduct for Zeichen 133; its meaning follows from its designation and the pedestrian symbol. It is used before areas where pedestrians may appear unexpectedly to vehicle traffic.
Frequently asked questions
Do I always have to stop at Zeichen 133?
No. However, you must drive with enough care and at an appropriate speed to react in good time and stop if necessary when pedestrians appear.
Do pedestrians have priority because of this sign?
No, Zeichen 133 alone does not give pedestrians priority. Other regulations may nevertheless establish a duty to wait, for example when turning or at a marked Fußgängerüberweg.
Does Tempo 30 automatically apply at Zeichen 133?
No, the sign does not contain a fixed speed limit. You must significantly reduce your speed depending on visibility, the width of the carriageway, pedestrian traffic and other circumstances if this is necessary.
How does Zeichen 133 differ from Zeichen 350?
Zeichen 133 is a triangular Gefahrzeichen and gives a general warning about pedestrians. Zeichen 350 is a blue information sign marking a Fußgängerüberweg, where special duties to wait apply in relation to pedestrians who are visibly intending to cross.
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