---
title: Trams and Light Rail Transit (LRT) Systems
---

# Trams and Light Rail Transit (LRT) Systems

## What are Trams & LRTs

Light rapid transit (LRT) systems, also known as ‘metros’, are being introduced in many large areas to provide a **more efficient and eco-friendly** form of public transport.

Tram systems are already common across Europe, and there are plans to expand them into more UK cities.

## Operation

- Trams may operate **entirely separately from other traffic** or **share roads with other vehicles**.
- As they run on **rails**, trams are **fixed to their routes** and **cannot manoeuvre around other road users**.
- They may run **singly or as multiple units** and can be up to **60 metres (200 feet) long**.
- Trams are **quiet, move quickly, and cannot steer**, so always anticipate their path.

## Swept Path

- The area occupied by a tram is marked by **paving or road markings**, called the **‘swept path’**.
- This path **must always be kept clear**.
- Never **stop on or across the tracks or markings**, except in **queuing traffic** or at **traffic lights**.
- Take **extra care when first encountering trams** until you are familiar with their traffic systems.

## Crossing Points

- Treat tram crossings **the same way as railway crossings**.
- Remember that trams can **approach silently and at speed**.

## Reserved Areas

- Drivers **must not enter reserved tram areas**, which are marked by **white line markings, a different surface, or both**.
- Reserved areas are **usually one-way**, but some may be **two-way**.

## Hazards

- **Steel rails are slippery** in both wet and dry conditions.
- Avoid driving **along the rails**, and take extra care when **braking or turning** to reduce the risk of skidding.

Additional areas of caution:

- Where **tracks run close to the kerb** for passenger pick-up or drop-off.
- Where **rails shift from one side of the road to the other**.

## Tram Stops

- At platforms (middle or side of the road), **follow road signs and markings**.
- If **no passing lane** is provided, **wait behind the tram** until it moves off.
- At stops **without platforms**, do **not drive between the tram and the left-hand kerb** while passengers are boarding or alighting.

## Warning Signs and Signals

- Always **obey all traffic signs or signals** controlling traffic around trams.
- Where **no signals are present**, **always give way** to trams.
- **Diamond-shaped signs** or **white light signals** apply **only to tram drivers**.

## Do's and Don'ts

### Do

- Watch for **additional pedestrian crossings** near tram stops; **stop for pedestrians**.
- Make allowances for **other road users unfamiliar with trams**.
- Be aware of **cyclists, motorcyclists, and moped riders**, as their **narrow tyres** may slip on or get caught in tram rails.

### Do Not

- **Race a tram** when there is insufficient space for both vehicles; remember **tram ends swing out on bends**.
- **Overtake at tram stops**.
- Drive **between platforms at tramway stations**; follow **directional signs**.
- **Park** where your vehicle **obstructs trams** or forces other drivers into unsafe positions; trams **cannot steer around obstructions**.

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