New information project in Erfurt: This is how we protect cyclists better!

New information project in Erfurt: This is how we protect cyclists better!

In Erfurt, the minimum distance to cyclists will now be clearly communicated using new information boards. The aim of the food bank campaign is to raise awareness of the legally required distance when overtaking and thus increase the safety of cyclists. In the city, the minimum overtaking distance is 1.5 meters, while on country roads it is even 2 meters. This initiative is part of a comprehensive, Thuringia-wide campaign, supported by organizations such as the General German Bicycle Club (ADFC) and the Verkehrsclub Deutschland (VCD). As thueringen24.de reports, Sophie Seher from ADFC Thuringia sees a safe distance not only as necessary, but also as beneficial for the overall traffic situation.

But what is at stake when drivers ignore this distance? The city's cycling officer, Dirk Büschke, believes that controls and possible sanctions are necessary to convey the importance of the minimum distance to people. This should create more safety on the roads not only for cyclists, but also for drivers. A distance measurement in cooperation with the state police is already being considered to check compliance with the rules.

The numbers in the background

The necessary distances are not just a recommendation, but an integral part of the road traffic regulations, which came into force on October 1, 2022. In Erfurt, drivers must maintain a minimum distance of 1.5 meters in urban areas and 2 meters outside urban areas, unless they are overtaking at a maximum speed of 30 km/h or are in a cycle lane. Another study by the KFV shows that many drivers are not aware of the new regulations. Over 40% did not know that the distance in the local area is 1.5 meters.

In a survey, 42% of drivers reported ignorance of the minimum distance, which also represents a potential safety risk. In 2022, there were 10,871 injured cyclists in Austria and an increase in the number of accidents of 13% compared to 2021. It is clear that insufficient overtaking distances can be one of the indirect sources of accidents.

Create awareness

The organizations behind the distance initiative are not only calling for more controls, but also for improvements to the general transport infrastructure. In particular, cycle lanes and compliance with distance regulations should be communicated more clearly. Better awareness of the regulations should ultimately help to increase traffic safety for all participants. After all, a well-informed driver is also a safe driver, and that's really worth it!

The Erfurt campaign is a step in the right direction, but it remains to be seen whether the planned measures will have the desired effect. The feedback from road users is crucial in order to initiate further steps and optimize safety on the roads.

Anyone driving in Erfurt from now on should pay attention - cyclists want more space, and the new information boards help to make this wish more visible.