Introduction of the chapter stopping and parking

First, you need to know the difference between stopping, standing still, and parking.

Stopping is what you do in response to a traffic situation—for example, stopping for a pedestrian crossing, stopping to yield, or stopping for an open bridge or level crossing. Obeying a stop signal from authorised officials is also a stop.

Standing still in the Netherlands means bringing your vehicle to a complete halt to load or unload, or to allow passengers to board or disembark. Stopping to ask a passerby for directions is not considered standing still, so it is considered parking.

Parking is defined as leaving your vehicle stationary for longer than the time needed to load or unload, or to allow passengers to board or disembark. Examples of parking include:

• Stopping to ask a passerby for directions.
• Stopping to make a phone call.
• Stopping to mail a letter.
• Stopping to wait for a passenger.
• Stopping to pick up an item from a store.
• Stopping to consult a road map or to set your navigation system.

You can stop or park on either the right or left side of the road. It’s often safer to choose the right side.
Once you’ve come to a stop, you’ll usually want to get out. Pay close attention to other traffic and don’t open your door without checking. Hold on tight to the door so it doesn’t blow out of your hands. Once you’ve gotten out, walk facing the traffic.
When you want to get back in, also walk facing the traffic. If your car is parked in an area where many children play, make sure they’re not near your car so you can drive away safely.