Spectrum: From January 1st there will be three changes in the Road Traffic Act (StVO) that will affect cyclists. Above all, the new traffic light regulation could cause some problems in the future, although it is to be welcomed.
Pedestrian traffic lights only apply to pedestrians
Probably the biggest change concerns the previously confusing regulation regarding bicycle and pedestrian traffic lights. Until now, if you were cycling on a cycle path next to the sidewalk, the pedestrian traffic light applied at a crossing or an intersection if there were no special bicycle traffic lights. This will change from January 1st: If there are no bicycle traffic lights, the traffic lights will apply in the future.
In our opinion, this is a step in the right direction, but it harbors enormous potential for conflict and danger, especially in large cities. When turning right, many drivers rely on the signal from the pedestrian traffic light - if it is red, many assume "free travel" and save themselves the much-needed glance over the shoulder. Not only is it urgently necessary to raise awareness among drivers, but also to provide information about the change in the rules.
Parents are allowed on the sidewalk with the kids
The second change is interesting for parents with children under the age of 8 years. Until now, they always have to drive on the sidewalk, even if there is a cycle path. In the future, a supervisor (age >16 years) may drive next to the child on the sidewalk at walking speed. In addition, children under the age of eight may also use the cycle path from January 1st, but only if it is structurally separated from the roadway.
E-scooters will also be on the cycle path in the future
Last but not least, another change in the StVO in the area of electromobility: While pedelecs were already allowed to use the cycle paths before, e-scooters and e-mopeds, which drive up to 25 km/h without the driver doing anything, were previously forced to close the lane use. In the future, these electric vehicles will also be allowed to use cycle paths - provided that they are structurally suitable and are also expressly approved for use. This is where it gets a bit confusing: The corresponding special character says "e-bikes free"; This is confusing because e-bikes are commonly referred to as pedelecs, while the legislature means two-wheelers that do not have a crank but a throttle grip.