Separated pathAustria
Traffic rules
Austria
1. Separated path
A separated path is a path or part of a road where different categories of road users, typically pedestrians and cyclists, are assigned separate sections of the same overall route. The sections may be distinguished by road markings, different paving materials, a kerb or another physical separation.
Users should remain within the part of the path intended for them and take particular care where the sections cross, merge or connect with roads. The permitted users, priority rules and any speed restrictions depend on the local traffic signs and regulations.
How is a separated walking and cycling path signed in Austria?
The Geh- und Radweg sign shows the pedestrian and bicycle symbols on opposite sides of a dividing line. Their positions indicate the allocated walking and cycling parts. The version without that division instead identifies a shared surface.
🔗 ris.bka.gv.at • Austrian RIS, StVO — sections 2, 8a, 52(16–17a), 53(27–28), 68
Mandatory divided pedestrian and cycle path.
English • Traffic sign StVO § 52 Z 17a lit. b • Pedestrian and cycle path. These signs identify a pedestrian and cycle path: a) a path shared by pedestrians and cyclists, or b) a path where pedestrian and cycle traffic is segregated. On sign b), the symbols must reflect the actual arrangement, with pedestrians on the right and bicycles on the left or vice versa.
Deutsch • StVO § 52 Z 17a lit. b • GEH- UND RADWEG. Diese Zeichen zeigen einen Geh- und Radweg an, und zwar ein Zeichen nach a) einen für Fußgänger und Radfahrer gemeinsam zu benützenden Geh- und Radweg und ein Zeichen nach b) einen Geh- und Radweg, bei dem der Fußgänger- und Fahrradverkehr getrennt geführt werden, wobei die Symbole im Zeichen nach b) der tatsächlichen Verkehrsführung entsprechend anzuordnen sind (Fußgänger rechts, Fahrrad links oder umgekehrt).
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Ris.bka.gv.at • StVO § 52 Z 17a lit. b
SVG source: 3247 • Public domain • Original revision 2006-08-27. Wikimedia original unmodified.
Which part of an Austrian separated path should cyclists use?
Use the cycling part indicated by the sign and layout. The adjoining pedestrian part does not become an extra cycle lane simply because it is clear. Cyclists must not endanger pedestrians using the facility.
🔗 ris.bka.gv.at • Austrian RIS, StVO — sections 2, 8a, 52(16–17a), 53(27–28), 68
Does every Austrian separated-path sign require cyclists to use the facility?
No. A round sign normally establishes compulsory cycling use, subject to the statutory exceptions. A square sign indicates a facility without compulsory cycling use. Separation of users and the obligation to use the route are different features of the sign.
🔗 ris.bka.gv.at • Austrian RIS, StVO — sections 2, 8a, 52(16–17a), 53(27–28), 68
