GehwegÖsterreich
Verkehrsregeln
Österreich
7. Gehweg
Ein Gehweg ist ein Weg oder Teil einer Straße, der hauptsächlich für den Fußgängerverkehr bestimmt ist. Er kann entlang einer Straße, durch einen Park oder ein Wohngebiet oder unabhängig von Straßen für Kraftfahrzeuge verlaufen.
Ein Gehweg kann ausschließlich Fußgängern vorbehalten sein oder Teil einer gemeinsam genutzten Strecke mit Radfahrern oder anderen zugelassenen Nutzern sein. Zugang, Vorfahrt und zugelassene Nutzer richten sich nach den Verkehrszeichen und örtlichen Vorschriften für den jeweiligen Weg.
What is a footpath?
A footpath is a path or part of a road intended primarily for pedestrians.
Is a footpath the same as a pavement?
Not necessarily. A pavement or sidewalk normally runs alongside a roadway, while a footpath may follow an independent route or pass through an area without an adjacent roadway.
Who may use a footpath?
Pedestrians are the primary users. Depending on the signs and local regulations, cyclists or other categories may also be permitted on shared paths.
Can cyclists use a pedestrian-only footpath?
Normally no when the path is specifically reserved for pedestrians. Cyclists may have to dismount unless local rules or signs allow cycling.
Can someone walking a bicycle use a footpath?
In many countries, a person walking a bicycle by hand is treated as a pedestrian and may therefore use pedestrian facilities, subject to local rules.
Can motor vehicles use a footpath?
Normally no when the route is reserved for pedestrians. Limited access may sometimes be authorised for maintenance, emergency or other specific purposes.
Can a footpath be shared with cyclists?
Yes. A route may be designated as a shared pedestrian-and-cycle path. Users must follow any signs indicating how the space should be shared.
Do pedestrians have priority on a shared footpath?
This depends on the local traffic rules and type of shared facility. Cyclists and other permitted users should always avoid endangering pedestrians.
Can a footpath cross a roadway?
Yes. Where a path crosses a roadway, pedestrians must follow the applicable crossing, priority and traffic-light rules.
Can a footpath be part of the public road?
Yes. Pedestrian paths can form part of the wider public-road network even though ordinary motor traffic may not use them.
Can a footpath have its own traffic sign?
Yes. Many countries use a specific pedestrian symbol to indicate a path reserved or compulsory for pedestrians.
What should cyclists do when a footpath is not open to cycling?
Use the appropriate cycle facility or roadway. Where local law permits it, a cyclist may also dismount and continue as a pedestrian.
