How does the right-hand rule (högerregel) work in Sweden?
Högerregeln: who gives way at a crossing and what the exceptions are.
Short answer
When the paths of two vehicles cross in Sweden, the driver must give way to the vehicle approaching from the right, except in the cases covered by sections 21 to 23. Transportstyrelsen says the rule applies everywhere, for example at three-way junctions, but it does not remove the duty to take care.
Why
- The Traffic Ordinance (3 kap. 18 §) says that when the paths of two vehicles cross, a driver must give way to the vehicle approaching from the right, except in the cases covered by 21 to 23 §§.
- Transportstyrelsen says the right-hand rule applies everywhere, for example at three-way junctions.
- According to Transportstyrelsen, the rule does not remove the requirement on both drivers to show the care and caution that is needed.
Details
A driver who has to give way must show the intention clearly by slowing down in good time or stopping, according to NTF (3 kap. 5 §). A roundabout is a separate case: a driver entering it must give way to every vehicle already in the circulation (3 kap. 22 §). For other road rules, see driving and road rules in Sweden, and for longer drives, road trips in Sweden.
Tip
At a junction without signs, look to the right before you enter and slow down early, so that your intention to give way is clear to other drivers.
What may differ
The rule does not apply in the cases covered by 21 to 23 §§ of chapter 3, and 22 § covers roundabouts. Even the driver who has priority must take the care the situation requires.
Common misconception
The right-hand rule does not apply in car parks or on small side roads.
What actually happens
Transportstyrelsen says the right-hand rule applies everywhere, for example at three-way junctions.
People also ask
- How does the priority-to-the-right rule work in Sweden?
- What is högerregeln?
Sources
- Traffic Ordinance (1998:1276), riksdagen.seChecked at:
- Transportstyrelsen: The right-hand ruleChecked at:
- NTF: Duty to give wayChecked at:
This answer is for reference only. Rules can change, so check Transportstyrelsen before you travel.
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