Fahrspur

Fahrspur is the defined portion of a road designated for the movement of vehicles in a particular direction. It is part of the Fahrbahn (the road surface) and is marked by painted lines or other markings. A road can have multiple Fahrspuren in each direction, including lanes reserved for specific uses such as buses, turning movements, or otherwise restricted traffic. The term is common in German-speaking countries and in traffic engineering.

Fahrspuren are delimited by road markings. The most common markings are white lines. Dashed lines typically allow lane changes, while solid lines generally prohibit crossing the line. A double solid line indicates crossing is not allowed. Lane width and marking patterns can vary by country and road type, with urban streets often having narrower lanes and highways featuring several parallel Fahrspuren.

Usage and rules are guided by national traffic laws, but several general principles apply. Drivers should use the Fahrspur appropriate for their travel direction and speed. In many systems, the rightmost lanes are intended for normal through traffic, while overtaking occurs in the leftmost lane on multi-lane roads. Lane changes should be signaled, made only when safe, and lane use should follow posted restrictions and signs. If a Fahrspur is closed ahead, drivers should follow diversion markings and not straddle the boundary.

Special Fahrspuren exist on some roads, including dedicated bus lanes (Busspur) or high-occupancy vehicle lanes. In many contexts, Fahrspuren for bicycles are separate and labeled as Fahrradstreifen. In everyday language, Fahrspur is often used interchangeably with Fahrstreifen, though Fahrstreifen is the more formal engineering term.