Cycling etiquette

The principles of cycling etiquette are as follows:

1. Know the regulations and principles of safe riding.

I am aware of traffic rules and other regulations that concern me when cycling. I know and appropriately master the principles of safe cycling in urban traffic (avoiding the door zone, etc.).

2. Do not ride without functioning lights, a bell, and brakes.

I take lights or blinkers even if I plan to return in daylight. In the season when I use lights, I have a backup plan for running out of batteries. I inform pedestrians of my presence by ringing the bell. I have two working brakes on my bike.

3. Pass pedestrians considerately, no matter where they are.

I must not scare pedestrians. I slow down before passing them. If they cannot see me, I ring the bell in advance, so they are aware of me and can react without haste. I pay special attention to roller skaters, dog owners, parents with strollers, and small children.

4. Do not run red lights.

Not even when I think it is safe, and especially not out of convenience. This is the most serious and critically perceived traffic violation of them all. If I get caught in a trap caused by an unresponsive detection loop in front of the traffic lights, I get out of it with the utmost caution.

5. Try not to ride on the sidewalk.

If I am cycling on the sidewalk, I am looking for ways to avoid it next time. I learn to ride in traffic, gradually leaving the sidewalks in quieter streets and riding on the carriageway more and more. Where my riding would be inconvenient for pedestrians, I walk my bike.

6. Behave predictably and indicate direction.

I ride clearly, so others know what I want to do. I do not swerve or jump into lanes or between the carriageway and the sidewalk. I signal turning, lane changes, and, if possible, even a change in lane position.

7. Anticipate the mistakes of others.

I always assume that others have not noticed me or have misjudged my speed. I only ride as fast as I can stop where I can see. It is better to brake unnecessarily a hundred times than to collide with someone once.

8. Do not respond to provocations

I don’t take revenge on the person who provoked me or anyone else. If someone endangers me out of ignorance, I can kindly and politely educate them.

9. I facilitate the way for others, allowing pedestrians or cars to go first.

I am learning to let pedestrians cross at crossings or to allow turning cars. I do not unnecessarily obstruct traffic and, when possible, let others pass me. Being considerate to others earns me respect from both pedestrians and drivers.

10. I am polite and set a good example.

When someone helps me, I thank them, wave at them, or at least smile. I spread positive vibes and promote the good name of cycling on city streets.

Behavior of others towards cyclists

Everyone who moves on the streets wants everything to happen without problems and accidents. Part of safe cycling in the city is the awareness of other road users about the behavior of cyclists and respectful behavior towards them.

As pedestrians, make sure to allow cyclists to pass where they can ride. Avoid areas reserved only for cyclists. When skating, keep in mind that most cyclists will be faster than you, so it is polite to move sparingly and not take up the entire width of the path, especially when listening to music. When walking a dog, try not to cross the bike path with a long leash and make sure the dog does not endanger cyclists.

As drivers, in particular, overtake cyclists considerately. A cyclist can unexpectedly swerve, and even a minor collision usually means a fall and injury for the cyclist. Leave a lateral distance of at least one meter, ideally one and a half meters or more. If you cannot overtake a cyclist with a safe lateral distance, do not overtake them. Do not drive on the protected bike lane unless it is necessary due to the size of your vehicle. Respect it when a cyclist joins the flow of traffic when cycling in a column. Do not drive towards them just because they have a slower start, as you will both stop soon. When getting out of the car, look around to see if there is a cyclist nearby.