Separated pathGermany
Traffic rules
Germany
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.
What is Germany’s official name for a separated walking and cycling path?
It is a getrennter Rad- und Gehweg. The blue circular sign has pedestrian and bicycle symbols divided vertically. The indicated cycling part and walking part are separate, rather than one surface shared by both groups.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany StVO: §2(4); Annex 2, sign 241
Must German cyclists use a signposted separated path’s cycling section?
Yes. The Regulations establish a cycle-path use obligation: cyclists use the cycling part rather than the carriageway, subject to the applicable statutory provisions. The pedestrian part is not an alternative cycling lane.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany StVO: §2(4); Annex 2, sign 241
Can other vehicles use a German separated pedestrian and cycle path?
Normally other traffic is prohibited. If a supplementary sign authorises another traffic category, it may use only the cycling part and must show consideration for cyclists, adapting speed when necessary. Permission does not open the walking part to that traffic.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany StVO: §2(4); Annex 2, sign 241
