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Regulations for the Velo Małopolska routes
By bike
From what we ourselves observe and read in the press, the subject of sharing common space (such as the newly created routes within the framework of Velo Małopolska) stirs up public opinion quite a bit, especially in places where these routes are still new.
Therefore, we would like to remind you – the matter of priority on bicycle paths is regulated (apart from common sense, politeness and kindness to other people) simply by the Traffic Code and the rules of the Velo Małopolska routes, which state that pedestrians may move on cycle paths if there is no parallel pavement, giving priority to cyclists. According to the Traffic Code, users of personal transport equipment qualify as pedestrians.
I refer to the official Terms & Conditions of the Velo Małopolska route network (below). It is also displayed on signs located at existing Cyclists’ Rest Stops.
- Cycling on signposted cycle routes is carried out under the general rules for the use of public roads in accordance with the Traffic Code.
- The cyclist is obliged to obey traffic regulations, as well as traffic signs and signals.
- Bicycle must be in good working order and equipped with a working brake, a bell or similar acoustic signal and the prescribed lighting: a white or yellow position light visible from the front, a red position light visible from the rear and a red reflector at the rear. The position light (front and rear) can be flashing. After dusk, the position light must be on the bike and switched on!
- Drive as close to the right-hand edge of the road as possible. Be ready to allow cyclists moving faster to overtake you from the left.
- If you are looking after young children on bicycles, they should ride in front of you. Make sure they don’t turn left or go down the middle of the road! The track of your ride should be closer to the axis of the road (you should protect the children from cyclists riding behind you and overtaking you).
- Warn the cyclists riding ahead of you of your intention to overtake by ringing a bell!
- Signal your intention to change direction (and also to overtake) with your arm outstretched to the side – it’s important for those driving behind you!
- Never stop in the middle of the bicycle path or in areas of poor visibility (e.g., after a turn) or at the base of a steep section. Remember not to block the passage of other users.
- If you’re pulling a trailer, don't forget about it – it can block traffic for others, and is often less visible! Remember to use a signalling pennant.
- The technique and speed of cycling must be adapted to the terrain and weather conditions (rain, snow), vehicle and pedestrian traffic and the individual skills of the cyclist.
- Don’t go outside the designated lane so as not to damage the roadside and greenery next to the cycle route, as well as the crest of the dyke if the route is routed on a river embankment.
- Barriers erected on forest roads don’t constitute a ban on cycling into the forest unless there is a sign next to the barrier informing about the temporary closure of a section of the road.
IMPORTANT FOR PEDESTRIANS
- Pedestrians are allowed to use cycle paths under the rules of the Traffic Code regulations.
- If there is no pavement, then pedestrians should move on the roads – including cycle paths – close to the left margin and give way to cyclists.
- Don’t stop in groups, especially in areas of poor visibility and at the base of hills.
- These rules also apply to runners.
IMPORTANT FOR ROLLERBLADERS:
- Rollerbladers can use the cycle paths.
- They must not impede bicycle traffic.
- Rollerblader should move on the right-hand side of the cycle path.
- A rollerblader overtaken by a cyclist, in particular when warned by a bell, should stop skating and ride evenly at the right-hand edge of the road.
- After dusk, rollerblader should either move slowly on the left-hand side of the road or use position lighting (white in front, red behind), just like a cyclist.