Crossing On Red In Denmark: A Fine Awaits!
Pedestrian crossings on red lights: Is it against the law in Denmark?
Denmark is known for its orderly pedestrian traffic behavior, and a common sight in its cities is people stopped at pedestrian traffic lights, even if no vehicles are present. But is crossing on a red light actually illegal in Denmark?
Pedestrian Traffic Laws
Now, you might be wondering if there are laws explicitly prohibiting pedestrians from crossing on a red light. The answer is a resounding yes! You can find this in chapter 3, part 7 of Denmark's traffic laws for pedestrians, which lays it out clearly: "at signalled pedestrian crossings, the carriageway and cycle path may only be entered when the signal for pedestrians shows a green light".
If you're caught breaking this rule by a police officer, they have the authority to slap you with a fine of 700 kroner (approximately $100 USD, depending on the exchange rate). This fine is listed among the police traffic fines.
Additional Pedestrian Offenses
According to the table of traffic fines, pedestrians can also be fined for other offenses, such as:1. Jumping or holding onto a moving vehicle: Pedestrians can be penalized for doing so, including standing on the side steps of a car when it's moving.2. Using sleds, skis, skates, roller skates, and similar devices for the same purpose can result in a fine as well.3. Rollerskating or skateboarding along the road: This practice is also forbidden.4. Walking on a motorway or dual carriageway: A 700 kroner fine awaits you if you decide to take a stroll there.
Caught Crossing On Red
With the law clear on pedestrians crossing on red, you might be wondering if police actually enforce this rule. In 2021, a police officer in Svendborg, Funen, reported that a man was fined after crossing on a red light and obstructing a car that was passing through the intersection.
Even if there are no vehicles nearby, if a police officer spots you crossing on a red light, you should expect to receive a fine. Officer Christian Billesø of Funen Police stated, "We don't necessarily turn a blind eye if we see someone crossing at a red light. It's provocative to us if a patrol car is sitting at the intersection and someone does it anyway. In such cases, you can definitely expect a fine."
A Word of Caution
In 2020, local media in Jutland reported a spate of fines issued for similar offenses. Police Inspector Mikkel Ross advised, "Don't cross at a red light. It's illegal, and you risk getting hit by a car."
In conclusion, if you're in Denmark, remember that crossing on a red light is not a recommended stunt. Comply with the pedestrian traffic signals to ensure safety and avoid a potential fine!
- The general-news outlet reported a fine given to a man in Svendborg, Funen, for jaywalking and obstructing a car, even though there were no vehicles nearby.
- The table of traffic fines in Denmark lists fines for pedestrians who jump or hold onto a moving vehicle, use sleds or skis, or rollerskate or skateboard along the road.
- Officer Christian Billesø from Funen Police warned that police do not turn a blind eye to pedestrians crossing on a red light and will issue fines if they witness such behavior.
- In 2020, the crime-and-justice sector in Jutland reported a series of fines issued for pedestrians crossing on red lights.
- To maintain conformity with Danish traffic laws and ensure safety, pedestrians are advised to respect pedestrian traffic signals and avoid crossing on a red light to avoid potential fines.
