querungsstelle

A Querungsstelle is a term used in German-speaking countries to describe a designated crossing point, typically for pedestrians, across a road or railway line. These points are established to ensure safety and provide a clear, authorized location for people to make their way from one side to the other. They are often marked with signage and may include additional safety features depending on the specific location and traffic conditions.

In the context of roads, a Querungsstelle can be a simple marked crosswalk, often referred to as a Zebrastreifen. These are usually found in urban areas, near schools, residential zones, or places with high pedestrian activity. In busier traffic situations, a Querungsstelle might be equipped with traffic lights, pedestrian signals, or even an underpass or overpass to further enhance safety by separating pedestrian and vehicular traffic.

For railway lines, a Querungsstelle is specifically a level crossing, known as a Bahnübergang or a niveaugelijk kruispunt in Dutch. These are points where a railway line intersects with a road or path at the same level. Level crossings are often equipped with barriers, warning lights, and audible signals to alert road users to approaching trains. The design and safety measures at a railway Querungsstelle are crucial due to the high speed and potential danger of trains. The term emphasizes the function of enabling safe passage or "queren" (crossing) over an obstacle.