New information project in Erfurt: How do we cyclists secure better!

New information project in Erfurt: How do we cyclists secure better!

Erfurt, Deutschland - In Erfurt, the minimum distance to cyclists is now clearly communicated with the help of new information boards. The Tafel campaign aims to raise awareness of the legally required distance when overtaking and thus increase the safety of the cyclists. In the city, the minimum overhaul distance is 1.5 meters, while it is even 2 meters on country roads. This initiative is part of a comprehensive, Thuringian-wide campaign, supported by organizations such as the General German Bicycle Club (ADFC) and the Traffic Club Germany (VCD). As reports thueringen24.de, Sophie Seher from the ADFC Thuringia not only sees a safe distance, but also as advantageous in the traffic situation as a whole.

But what is at stake when drivers disregard this distance? The city's cycling officer, Dirk Büschke, believes that controls and possible sanctions are necessary to bring the importance of the minimum distance to the people. This should not only create more safety in road traffic for cyclists, but also for drivers. A distance measurement in cooperation with the state police is already 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 have to keep the minimum distance of 1.5 meters in urban areas and 2 meters outside, unless they overtake at a maximum speed of 30 km/h or are located on a cycling strip. Another [study of the KFV] (https://www.kfv.at/fahrad-ueberholz-im-orts area/) shows that many drivers are not aware of the new regulations. Over 40% did not know that the distance in the local area was 1.5 meters.

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

create awareness

The organizations that are behind the distance initiative not only require any more controls, but also an improvement in the general traffic infrastructure. In particular, wheel strips and compliance with the distance regulations should be communicated more clearly. Finally, better awareness of the regulations is intended to help increase the security in traffic for all participants. After all, a well -informed driver is also a safe driver, and there is really something!

The Erfurt action is a step in the right direction, but it remains to be seen whether the planned measures will show the hoped -for effect. The feedback from road users is crucial to initiate further steps and to optimize security on the streets.

If you are now in Erfurt at the wheel, you should be careful-the cyclists want more space and the new information boards will help to make this request more visible.