Shared-use pathSouth Africa
Traffic rules
South Africa
1. Shared-use path
A shared-use path is a path or part of a road intended for use by both pedestrians and cyclists. Unlike facilities where pedestrians and cyclists have clearly separated sections, users of a shared-use path normally travel within the same general space.
Because users may travel at very different speeds, cyclists should approach pedestrians carefully, adapt their speed and leave sufficient space when passing. The permitted users, priority rules and any speed restrictions depend on the local traffic signs and regulations.
Does South Africa provide routes shared by walkers and cyclists?
Yes. For example, Cape Town’s official guidance describes some routes through greenbelts or quieter areas as intended for both cyclists and pedestrians. Check the local route’s controls. This city example does not make every South African footpath a shared cycling route.
🔗 capetown.gov.za • South Africa, official authority guidance — shared-use-path
How should cyclists treat pedestrians on Cape Town shared routes?
The city’s cycling guidance instructs riders to give way to pedestrians, keep left and ride in single file. Sharing a route does not remove the need to adapt to walkers. Follow any additional signs on the particular path.
🔗 capetown.gov.za • South Africa, official authority guidance — shared-use-path
Mandatory shared pedestrian and cycle path.
English • R112 • Cyclists and pedestrians only. This road or path is set aside for cyclists and pedestrians only, sharing the space without a dividing barrier.
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Transport.gov.za • Department of Transport · SADC RTSM Vol. 1, chapter 2, PDF p. 53 (May 2012)
SVG source: Southern African Development Community • Public domain • Original revision 2017-05-28. Wikimedia original unmodified.
Does a Cape Town shared cycling route remove the need to obey traffic signals?
No. The official guidance requires cyclists to obey traffic lights and stop controls and pay attention at intersections. An off-road route’s walking and cycling use does not itself grant priority at the point where it meets road traffic.
🔗 capetown.gov.za • South Africa, official authority guidance — shared-use-path
