Important bicycle rules: How to drive safely and legally!

Important bicycle rules: How to drive safely and legally!

Österreich - Cycling is becoming increasingly popular, but many cyclists are unsure about the applicable rules and regulations. On June 3, 2025, MDR The most important errors and clarifies the rights and duties of cyclists. One central point is the use of bike paths: in most cases racing cyclists have to drive on bike paths, with the exception of Austria. Pedelecs at a speed of up to 25 km/h also belong on the bike path, while e-bikes or S-pedelecs that reach up to 45 km/h must also be on the road.

Special rules apply especially to children. For example, children up to 8 years have to use the sidewalk, while children from 8 to 10 years of age are allowed to cycle on the sidewalk if there is no structurally separate bike path. In addition, children up to 8 years can drive on the sidewalk accompanied by an adult.

rights and obligations of the cyclists

cyclists have the right to cross zebra crossing, but without priority. A "Radgee" sign is just a recommendation and has no official character. The alcohol limit becomes interesting: from a per thousand value of 0.3 it can be expensive, from 1.6 per thousand it is a crime that can be punished with high fines and the order of a medical-psychological examination (MPU). ADAC emphasizes that the fines for cyclists are reduced as long as no specific criterion in the battle catalog is.

The topic of distance from cars is particularly important: cyclists must keep at least 1 meter distance. When turning, the arm should be stretched out in good time. In addition, when overtaking another road user, cyclists must note that maximum speeds in 30 zones also apply to them.

behavior in road traffic

cyclists may only drive against the direction of travel in one -way streets if this is also expressly permitted. Mobile phone on the handlebar is prohibited unless it is a bracket for the use of navigation apps. Listening to music is allowed, but only as long as cyclists notice everything. In addition, cyclists are allowed to wind past standing vehicles, but this is not permitted on slow rolling vehicles.

Another important aspect concerns red light violations: these are punished with a minimum fine of 60 euros and a point in Flensburg, whereby the punishment is higher should be at risk of other road users. In addition, cyclists on zebra crossings have no priority in front of pedestrians, but have to descend and push if necessary.

This gives cyclists the opportunity to better orient themselves in traffic and to avoid possible fines. Compliance with these rules is of great importance not only for personal security, but also for the safety of other road users. A better understanding of the traffic rules can reduce accidents and misunderstandings in road traffic.