Core: Motorcyclists, learner vehicles and microcars

Only a blue beacon with a two-tone horn makes a vehicle a priority vehicle: you must then give way. A yellow or orange beacon is purely a warning signal — slow, wide, or a works vehicle — and does not create a duty to give way (Regeling optische en geluidssignalen 2009). Microcars follow the traffic rules for passenger cars and therefore drive on the carriageway, among the fast traffic. Outside built-up areas the speed difference with other traffic is a risk; mainly older people use a microcar (Book p.131). A microcar has a design speed of at most 45 km/u (vehicle category L6e) — a legal nuance the book itself does not state; do not confuse this with the 45 km/u of a moped without a cycle path. Learners, unlike experienced drivers, do not yet move so smoothly through traffic, especially not during the first driving lessons. The driving instructor tries to prevent overly clumsy behaviour, but the book counts on some tolerance from other road users (Book p.131). Some motorcyclists try to make use of 'every gap' they can find. This creates an unsettled traffic picture and can lead to startled reactions. Because motorcyclists are fast and agile, they can appear 'out of nowhere' behind you (Book p.132). If you see a vehicle with flashing hazard lights, take into account a stationary or slow-moving traffic jam, or a vehicle broken down (Book p.132).