Rijvakken

Rijvakken are designated lanes on a road or highway intended for the use of specific types of vehicles or for managing traffic flow. The term "rijvakken" is Dutch and translates directly to "driving lanes." The primary purpose of rijvakken is to improve road safety and efficiency by organizing traffic into predictable patterns.

In many countries, roads are divided into multiple rijvakken, typically separated by painted lines. These lines can be solid or dashed, indicating whether lane changes are permitted. Solid lines generally signify that changing lanes is prohibited, while dashed lines allow for lane changes with caution. The number of rijvakken on a road varies depending on its capacity and the volume of traffic it handles.

Rijvakken are often designated for specific purposes. For instance, some lanes might be reserved for faster-moving traffic, while others are for slower vehicles. In urban areas, dedicated bus lanes or bicycle lanes are also forms of rijvakken designed to prioritize certain modes of transport. Exit lanes and merge lanes are also specialized rijvakken that manage the transition of vehicles onto or off of a main roadway. Clear signage and road markings are crucial for indicating the purpose and restrictions associated with each rijvak. Understanding and adhering to the rules of rijvakken is essential for all road users to ensure smooth and safe travel.