Essential guide of traffic standards for cyclists: what you should know to avoid fines
Cyclists, together with pedestrians, are the most vulnerable users on public roads. However, this does not mean that they are exempt from following circulation standards. In fact, the GENERAL CIRCULATION REGULATION It establishes a series of rules that cyclists must comply with both in city and on the road to guarantee their safety and that of other users. Failure to comply with them not only is a risk, but it can lead to important fines. Next, we tell you what are the most important norms and the most common sanctions.
Circulation standards for cyclists in city
When you pedal around the city, it is crucial that you pay attention to signs, crosses and traffic lights. Here are some basic rules that you must follow:
1. prohibited circular on the sidewalk
One of the most common mistakes between urban cyclists is to move along the sidewalk, which is prohibited. The general norm is that you must circulate through the right margin of the road. Only in exceptional cases, such as when there is no bike lane and municipal ordinances allow it, you can use the sidewalk. In cities like Madrid, you can only roll on the sidewalk if it is part of a cycling itinerary or in authorized sections. Circular on the sidewalk outside these cases can cost you a fine of € 200.
2. Obligatory to use the bike lane
When there is a bike lane available, you must use it, according to article 36 of the General Vehicle Regulations. However, some cities allow exceptions, so it is advisable to inform themselves of local ordinances. If not to use the bike lane when it is mandatory, the fine amounts to € 200.
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3. Cross the zebra crossing on foot
Another very frequent norm is that, if you are going to cross a pedestrian step, you must get off the bike and cross on foot. Although some cities like Valencia or Seville allow crossing mounted in certain cases, the general rule is to do it. If you do not respect this standard, the fine is € 200.
4. Signal the turns
When you go, you must indicate the direction with your arm, either to the right or to the left. Not signaling a maneuver can result in a fine of € 200, the same sanction as in other vehicles such as cars or motorcycles.
Circulation standards for road cyclists
On the road, cyclist traffic standards are slightly different from those of city. These are some of the most important:
5. Circular through the shoulder
If you pedal up by road and there is no bike lane, you must use the right shoulder. In case it is in poor condition or is very narrow, you can circulate through the right lane, but always to the right. The fine for not complying with this standard is € 200.
6. Use of mandatory helmet
Although in the city the use of helmet for over 16 years (although recommended) is not mandatory, on the road it is for all cyclists. The helmet must be approved and in good condition. Do not wear helmet can lead to a fine of € 200.
7. Circulation in parallel
When you go in a road by road, you can roll in parallel, but only in rows of two cyclists. In situations of low visibility, such as closed curves or fog, you must circulate in the Indian row. The sanction for breaching this standard is € 100.
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Other important standards and usual fines
In addition to the aforementioned norms, there are other rules that cyclists must comply with in city and road to avoid sanctions and guarantee their safety:
8. Prohibited to use the mobile
While pedaling, it is forbidden to use the mobile or wear headphones, since this can be distracted and hinders the attention to the signals or the environment.
9. Alcohol and drugs: same rules as for drivers
Cyclists must meet the same blood alcohol limits as the drivers of other vehicles (0.25 mg/l). Overcoming this limit or giving positive in drugs entails fines between € 500 and € 1,000, although it will not affect the points of the card.
10. lighting and reflective elements
If you circulate at night or in low visibility conditions, it is mandatory to wear front and rear lights, as well as reflective vest. If not, the sanction can be up to € 100.
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