Separated pathPoland

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Traffic rules

Poland

11. 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.

Separated footpath and cycleway along platform 1 of Cieszyn railway station. (Cieszyn, Poland)
Wikimedia.org • Kamil Czaiński • CC BY-SA

What is a separated path?

A separated path is a route where pedestrians, cyclists or other permitted users have clearly designated sections rather than sharing the same space.

How are the different parts of a separated path identified?

The sections may be separated by a painted line, different paving materials, a kerb, verge or another physical division. Traffic signs may also show which side each category should use.

Is a separated path the same as a shared-use path?

No. On a shared-use path, pedestrians and cyclists normally use the same space. On a separated path, each category has its own designated section.

Which side should pedestrians use?

Pedestrians should use the section indicated for pedestrians by the signs, symbols, markings or layout of the path.

Which side should cyclists use?

Cyclists should use the section designated for bicycles and should avoid unnecessarily entering the pedestrian section.

Can pedestrians walk in the cycling section?

Normally they should remain in the pedestrian section where one is specifically provided. Local rules may nevertheless allow exceptions where their designated section is obstructed or unusable.

Can cyclists use the pedestrian section?

Normally no. Cyclists should remain in the cycling section unless local rules specifically permit otherwise or they dismount and become pedestrians.

Can mopeds use a separated path?

This depends on the traffic signs and local vehicle classifications. Some separated facilities also permit specified moped categories on the cycling section.

Can a separated path be two-way?

Yes. The cycling section may carry traffic in one or both directions depending on the signs and local road arrangement.

What happens where the pedestrian and cycling sections cross?

Users should approach carefully and follow any priority signs, markings or crossing rules. Neither category should assume priority simply because they are using a separated path.

Can a separated path cross a roadway?

Yes. At the crossing, users must follow the applicable traffic lights, priority rules and road markings.

Why are pedestrians and cyclists separated?

Separation can reduce conflicts between users travelling at different speeds and provide a clearer and more predictable route for both pedestrians and cyclists.

Shared-use path

Pedestrian warning

1 Poland 2 Motorway 3 Expressway 4 Residential area 5 Built-up area 6 Zone 7 Speed limit 8 Footpath 9 Bike path 10 Shared-use path 11 Separated path 12 Pedestrian warning 13 Tunnel 14 Speed bump 15 Toll road 16 Customs 17 One-way traffic 18 Quay 19 Slope 20 Bus lane 21 Bus stop 22 Dead end 23 Stop sign 24 Give way 25 Roundabout 26 Priority road 27 Road narrowing 28 Priority over oncoming traffic 29 Give way to oncoming traffic 30 Pedestrian crossing 31 Railway crossing 32 Mandatory direction 33 Turn prohibition 34 School area 35 Overtaking 36 Crossing animals 37 Curve 38 Chevron 39 Wrong-way driving 40 Roadworks 41 Height limit 42 Weight limit 43 Radar speed sign 44 Priority at the next junction 45 Traffic lights 46 Traffic lights warning 47 Pedestrian lights 48 Road markings 49 Junction layout 50 Driving licence 51 Traffic mirror 52 International border 53 Pedestrian underpass 54 Cycling route 55 Parking 56 No parking 57 No stopping 58 Park and ride 59 Kiss and ride 60 Disabled parking 61 Traffic management 62 Merging 63 Reversing 64 U-turn 65 Road surface 66 Provisional licence 67 Hazardous cargo 68 Radio service 69 Tourist attraction 70 Horn 71 Licence plate 72 Charging station 73 Dangers 74 Rail safety 75 Pedestrian 76 Cyclist 77 Car 78 Truck 79 Bus 80 Police 81 Ambulance 82 Taxi 83 European emission standard 84 Public road 85 Pothole 86 Private property 87 Path 88 Particulates 89 Air pollution 90 Rush hour 91 Road code 92 Two-way traffic 93 Street gutter 94 Cargo bike 95 Forestry vehicle 96 Construction vehicle 97 Semi-trailer truck 98 Trolleybus 99 Speed pedelec 100 Delivery vehicle ...