Although according to the data of the Federal Statistical Office in Wiesbaden, the number of cyclists killed in traffic accidents in 2007 is down significantly by 12.6 percent compared to the same period in 2006, the number of injured cyclists in the named time comparison increased by 2.6 percent overall: 79,020 cyclists were involved in accidents in 2007; 77,054 were in 2006.
Accident-free through the season!
In many cases, two-wheeled riders are partly responsible for accidents involving cyclists. The president of the German traffic watch and Federal Minister a.D. Kurt Bodewig MdB to this: “Here is not always a consciously accepted rule violation or carelessness in the behavior to reason. Many cyclists are unsure of their rights and obligations in road traffic.” To help cyclists get through the season accident-free, the German Road Safety Association compiles important commandments and prohibitions for cyclists:
Bike lanes
If there are bicycle paths marked with a traffic sign, they must be used by all cyclists. On the cycle paths, as on the roadway, the right-hand drive rule applies. In principle, the requirement of anticipatory and considerate driving also applies on cycle paths, so that other cyclists are not hindered or even endangered. This is particularly important on combined cycle paths, where cyclists share the space with children or skaters, for example. Here, everyone involved must exercise caution to avoid conflicts. Special attention is also required on cycle paths that are routed to the left of the road or cycle paths at traffic circles. Cyclists are often difficult to see by motorists at intersections or junctions; the latter are therefore urged to drive defensively at reduced speed when there is mixed traffic with cyclists and when cycle paths are routed in unclear places.
Road use
If no bike lane is available, youth and adult bicyclists must use the roadway. This increases their risk of accidents with motorized road users. Especially at traffic lights or other waypoints where the flow of traffic stops temporarily, cyclists are at risk of being caught in the blind spot of a car or truck and not being seen. Maintaining a reasonable safe distance from other vehicles and making eye contact with drivers are ways to reduce these hazards. One exception to road use by bicyclists is made by law for children: Up to the age of eight, they must ride on the sidewalk; for children up to the age of ten, it is up to personal choice whether to use the sidewalk or the road. In contrast to car drivers, cyclists have the right to enter “non-standard” one-way streets. Even in many pedestrian zones, bicycling is permitted by an appropriate traffic sign. In such situations, it is advisable that cyclists ride with increased attention and adjust their speed.
Lighting
Lighting is one of the legally required essential safety standards on a bicycle, which also includes brakes, reflectors and a bell. The lighting must also be functional during the day. It must be switched on when it is dusk or visibility conditions require it – it goes without saying that they must be used in the dark.
Phone
Just as when driving a car, it is forbidden to make a phone call or even write a text message while cycling.
Traffic light
Traffic lights apply in principle to all motorists, including cyclists. Anyone who disregards a red light must expect a fine – anyone who runs a light that has been showing “red” for more than a second will also receive a point in the central traffic register in Flensburg.
Speed
Cyclists must also adapt their speed to the traffic situation. This also means that they should keep to the prescribed maximum speed of 5-7 km/h in play streets, for example.
Drunk on the handlebars of a bicycle
Alcohol is not only taboo for car drivers, but also when cycling. Anyone involved in an accident with 0.3 per mille can expect to have their driver’s license revoked. Cycling with 1.6 per mille (absolutely unfit to drive) is also punished with driver’s license withdrawal, beyond that still with points in Flensburg.
