Wednesday, October 31, 2018

NEW LAW ON THE USE OF BICYCLES IN FORCE FROM 31 OCTOBER 2018



With effect from October 31, 2018, the provisions of the Regulation of the Cycle Traffic Law (Law 19 (I) / 2018) are in force. The new legislation governs the use of a bicycle on the road network. 

With the new legislation, the following applies: 
1.  It is forbidden to use a bicycle on any motorway or expressway unless it is issued with the permission of the Chief of Police.

2.  The minimum equipment to be fitted to a bicycle shall be determined:  
•  two independent brake systems,  
• a  white or yellow light fitted to the front of the bicycle, visible from a distance of more than 150 meters,  
• a  fixed or flashing red light, at the rear of the bicycle, also visible from a distance of more than 150 meters, 
•  reflectors, 
•  special bellows and  
•  tires in good condition.

3.  Define the obligations of the cyclist when traveling on the road (eg to control the traffic behind him, to comply with traffic signs and traffic lights, to obey signals and instructions from a police officer who regulates traffic movement).

4.  The cyclist's obligation to keep the left-hand side of the road is regulated, provided that he can move anywhere, subject to road traffic regulations and safety requirements.

5.  At the same time, bans are applied to the use of the bicycle (for example, the cyclist does not park, place or leave his bike in a way that prevents or is likely to impede the free movement of other cyclists who are moving or trying to cycling, cycling or cycling trails).

6.  The obligations of drivers of motor vehicles against cyclists on any road and bicycle lane are explicitly defined, such as adapting the speed and the course of their vehicle in such a way as to facilitate the movement of the cyclist and avoid maneuvers in a way that is obstructed the movement of the cyclist or the risk to him.

7.  At the same time it is forbidden to ride a bicycle under the influence of alcohol or narcotics.

It should be noted that by November 15th, police checks on the provisions of the new legislation will be limited to information and suggestions to cyclists and other road users to update and adapt to new data.