Introduction of the chapter stopping and parking

First, you must know the difference between stopping, standing still and parking in the Netherlands.

Stopping is what you do that results from a traffic situation. For example, stopping for a pedestrian crossing, giving way, stopping for an opened bridge or level crossing. Following a stop signal from authorised officials is also stopping.

Standing still, in the Netherlands, is bringing your vehicle to a halt for immediate loading or unloading of goods, or letting passengers in and out of a car. Stopping to ask a passer-by for directions does not fall under standing still, so that falls under parking.

Parking is leaving your vehicle stationary for longer than the time needed for immediate loading or unloading, or letting passengers in and out. Examples of parking include:

Stopping to ask directions from a passerby;
Stopping to make a telephone call;
Stopping to post a letter;
Stopping to wait for a passenger;
Stopping to pick up an item in a shop;
Stopping to consult a road map, or to set up your navigation system.

You may stop or park on either the right or left side of the carriageway. It is often safer to choose the right side.
Once you have come to a stop, you will usually want to get out of the car, paying close attention to other traffic and not throwing open your door and holding it firmly so it does not blow out of your hands. When you get out, walk facing the traffic.
When you want to get back in also walk with your face in the direction of traffic. If your car is in an area where many children play, make sure they are not near your car so you can drive away safely.