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Cycle path
Requirement or prohibition 1. Cycle traffic may not use the carriageway but must use the cycle path (mandatory cycle-path use). 2. Other traffic may not use it. 3. If a Zusatzzeichen permits another type of traffic to use a cycle path, that traffic must take cycle traffic into consideration, and other vehicular traffic must, where necessary, adapt its speed to cycle traffic. 4. § 2 paragraph 4 sentence 6 remains unaffected.
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When you see the Zeichen
As a cyclist, you must generally use the cycle path marked with Zeichen 237 and may not ride on the carriageway. Motor vehicles may neither use the cycle path nor stop or park on it unless this is expressly permitted by a Zusatzzeichen.
Rules
- Zeichen 237 makes using the cycle path mandatory for cyclists.
- Other traffic may generally not use the cycle path.
- If another type of traffic is permitted by a Zusatzzeichen, it must show consideration for cyclists and adjust its speed when necessary.
- The obligation to use the cycle path does not apply in exceptional cases if the path is objectively unusable, for example because of an impassable roadworks site or complete blockage.
- The sign applies to the marked cycle path; a cycle path on the left may be used only if this is permitted or required by the signs.
Tips
- When turning, pay particular attention to cyclists on the cycle path and give them priority if you cross their path.
- When entering or leaving driveways, keep the cycle path clear and move forward only as far as necessary for a clear view.
- Do not use the cycle path as a temporary stopping area, even to let someone get in or out.
- If there are Zusatzzeichen, expect other permitted types of traffic and adapt your behaviour to the specific permission.
Common misunderstandings
- The sign is confused with Zeichen 239 “Gehweg”; Zeichen 237 shows a white bicycle symbol and is assigned to cyclists.
- Some learner drivers believe that, despite Zeichen 237, cyclists are free to choose between the carriageway and the cycle path. In principle, using the cycle path is mandatory here.
- Permission granted by a Zusatzzeichen is confused with priority for other vehicles. In fact, other permitted traffic must show particular consideration for cyclists.
Exam tip
In theory-test questions, it is often important to distinguish between a cycle path that merely exists and one whose use is mandatory because of Zeichen 237. Also pay attention to Zusatzzeichen: they can permit other types of traffic to use the cycle path, but they do not remove the obligation to show consideration for cyclists.
Did you know
Zeichen 237 is mainly installed where using the cycle path is necessary for reasons of road safety or traffic flow. This means that not every cycle path identifiable by its construction is automatically mandatory to use; in principle, the decisive factor is the corresponding signage.
Frequently asked questions
May I briefly stop my car on a cycle path marked with Zeichen 237?
No. The cycle path is reserved for cyclists and, in principle, may neither be used by a car nor used for stopping or parking.
Must a cyclist use the cycle path even if it is blocked?
Only as long as the cycle path is actually usable. If it is impassable, for example because of roadworks or an obstruction, the cyclist may cautiously move onto the carriageway; as soon as it is possible and reasonable to do so, the cycle path whose use is mandatory must be used again.
What does a Zusatzzeichen permitting another type of traffic mean?
The type of traffic shown may also use the cycle path. It must show consideration for cyclists and adjust its speed to them when necessary.
May I drive across the cycle path when turning?
You may cross the cycle path when turning only with particular caution. You must allow cyclists travelling straight ahead to pass and ensure that they are not endangered.
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