Pedestrians and cyclists

Pedestrians, cyclists and e-scooter riders are the most vulnerable road users. As a driver that means paying attention and being ready to give way — let's sort out when and how.

Pedestrians at a crossing

As you approach a pedestrian crossing, slow down or stop to give way to pedestrians who are crossing the carriageway or already stepping onto the crossing. When turning, also give way to pedestrians, cyclists and e-scooter riders crossing the carriageway you are turning into.

Cyclists and e-scooters

Bicycles and e-scooters ride on the bike path (sign No. 413) or, where there is none, close to the right edge of the carriageway. The e-scooter speed limit is 25 km/h. When overtaking or passing, leave a safe side gap and do not squeeze them to the edge.

Darkness and poor visibility

In the dark, a pedestrian on the carriageway or shoulder must wear a reflective vest or clearly visible reflective elements. Also expect children or older people to behave unpredictably — slow down and be ready to stop.

Real-world situations

A pedestrian has already stepped onto an unsignalled crossing in your direction of travel.

Slow down or stop before the crossing and let them cross. Only move off once the pedestrian is no longer in your way.

You are turning right, and a cyclist is riding straight on along the bike path.

Give way to them: when turning you must let a cyclist crossing the carriageway you are turning into go. Wait, then finish the turn.

In the evening outside town you spot a pedestrian on the shoulder with no reflectors.

Slow down and, if you can, widen the side gap. Remember that in the dark a pedestrian may be seen late, so drive with a margin.

Common mistakes

Not stopping when a pedestrian is only stepping onto the crossing.
Give way as soon as the pedestrian starts to cross or steps onto the crossing, not once they are mid-road.
Overtaking a cyclist tightly, almost brushing past.
Leave a safe side gap and overtake only when it is safe; a cyclist can wobble.
Assuming only the pedestrian is responsible for being seen in the dark.
The pedestrian does need reflectors, but you are the one driving — slow down and be ready to stop.

Key takeaways

Give way to pedestrians crossing or already stepping onto the crossing.
When turning, let pedestrians and cyclists crossing your road go.
Bicycles and e-scooters use the bike path or the right edge; e-scooters are limited to 25 km/h.
In the dark a pedestrian needs reflectors, but you must stay alert.

Check yourself

A pedestrian steps onto an unsignalled crossing in your direction. What do you do?

What is the maximum permitted speed for an e-scooter?

In the dark a pedestrian walks on the carriageway or shoulder. What do they need?

Around pedestrians and cyclists

At a crossing, slow down and give way to pedestrians
When turning, let pedestrians and cyclists crossing your road go
When overtaking a cyclist, leave a safe side gap
In the dark, expect hard-to-see pedestrians
Near children and the elderly, drive with extra care

Frequent questions

Do I give way to a pedestrian who is only about to step onto the crossing?

Give way as soon as the pedestrian starts to cross or steps onto the crossing. Drive with a margin so you can stop if needed.

Where do bicycles and e-scooters ride?

On the bike path (sign No. 413), or, where there is none, close to the right edge of the carriageway.

From what age may you ride a bicycle or e-scooter on the road?

An e-scooter — from age 14, with a cyclist's certificate (or a driving licence of any category) and the scooter registered with CSDD. A helmet is mandatory for everyone under 17; children up to 12 may ride on the pavement.

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