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The tram always has priority

Trams are like the elephants and rhinoceroses of the animal kingdom: they are incredibly heavy and imposing.
Their weight and size make their average braking distance four times longer than that of a car.

The tram always has priority for two reasons:

  • Due to its weight and size, its average braking distance is four times longer than that of a car.
  • Trams run on rails, which means they cannot deviate from their path if someone unexpectedly crosses the tracks.

As a traveller, it is therefore essential to pay extra attention when crossing tram tracks.

A long braking distance

The tram is a way of transport like no other. It runs on tracks, so it cannot deviate from its path, unlike a car.

A car weighs between 1 and 1.5 tonnes and has rubber wheels, which provide better grip than metal-on-metal contact.
A tram weighs 40 tonnes without passengers. At full capacity, it easily weighs 69 tonnes, which significantly extends its braking distance.

A tram travelling at 30 km/h requires at least 40 metres to come to a stop.
In terms of distance, this is equivalent to 6 elephants following each other!

The tram's braking distance is very long. Therefore, never cross tram tracks in haste!

Priority over pedestrians, cyclists, and scooters

The tram has priority over all other users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and scooters.

The tram's priority takes precedence, even at protected pedestrian crossings.
Red pedestrian crossings indicate places where you can cross the tram tracks, but they do not grant priority!

Always be vigilant when crossing tram tracks.

Safety rules and travel tips