Lisbon

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Road and Pedestrian Safety

Sections

Comprehensive Guide on Road and Pedestrian Safety in Lisbon, Portugal

1. Traffic Laws

  • Driving Side: Vehicles drive on the right side of the road.
  • Speed Limits:
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
    • Non-urban roads: 90 km/h (56 mph)
    • Motorways: 120 km/h (75 mph)
  • Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers.
  • Mobile Phones: Use of handheld devices while driving is prohibited.
  • Alcohol Limit: Blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. For novice drivers (less than 3 years), the limit is 0.02%.

2. Pedestrian Crossings

  • Zebra Crossings: Clearly marked; vehicles are required to stop for pedestrians.
  • Traffic Lights: Pedestrian signals are present; wait for the green man before crossing.
  • Sidewalks: Generally well-maintained, but be cautious of uneven surfaces and street furniture.

3. Public Transportation Safety

  • Metro and Trams:
    • Keep belongings secure; pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas.
    • Wait behind the safety line on platforms.
  • Buses:
    • Use designated bus stops; check schedules as they can vary.
    • Be cautious when boarding and alighting, especially in busy traffic.

4. Common Road Hazards

  • Hills and Slopes: Lisbon is hilly; be cautious of vehicles on steep roads.
  • Bicycles and Scooters: Increasingly common; watch for cyclists, especially in bike lanes.
  • Road Conditions: Potholes and construction can be present; stay alert while walking or driving.

5. Cultural Attitudes Towards Road Safety

  • Driving Behavior: Generally, drivers are courteous, but aggressive driving can occur. Be cautious at intersections.
  • Pedestrian Priority: While pedestrians have rights, not all drivers yield; always look both ways before crossing.
  • Public Awareness: There are ongoing campaigns to improve road safety awareness among both drivers and pedestrians.

6. Costs Associated with Transportation

  • Public Transport Fares:
    • Metro/Tram/Bus: €1.50 per trip; discounts available with a Viva Viagem card.
    • Monthly pass: Approximately €42 for unlimited travel.
  • Taxi Fares: Starting fare around €3.50, with additional costs per kilometer.
  • Fines:
    • Speeding: €60 to €600 depending on severity.
    • Not wearing a seatbelt: €120 to €600.
    • Using a mobile phone while driving: €120 to €600.

7. Local Considerations

  • Emergency Numbers:
    • Police: 112
    • Fire: 117
    • Ambulance: 112
  • Language: While many locals speak English, learning basic Portuguese phrases can enhance communication.
  • Weather Conditions: Be cautious during rainy days; roads can become slippery, and visibility may be reduced.

Conclusion

Understanding road and pedestrian safety in Lisbon is crucial for a safe experience. Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws, remain vigilant as a pedestrian, and utilize public transportation wisely. Always prioritize safety and be aware of your surroundings.