Bicycle Traffic Safety – Stay Safe on All Roads

Learn all important traffic rules, required equipment, and safety tips for safe cycling. Traffic regulations, right-of-way, fines, and practical behavioral tips for road traffic.

TL;DR – Key Takeaways:

Required equipment: Lights, reflectors, bell – or face fines (€20-35)
Drive on the right: Always ride on the right side, only pass when safe
Bike path obligation: Only mandatory with blue sign (Signs 237/240/241)
Alcohol limit: 1.6 per mille = criminal offense, 0.3 per mille dangerous with abnormal behavior
Keep distance: Minimum 1.5 m within cities, 2 m outside when overtaking
Use hand signals: Always indicate turns, greatly increases safety
Wear helmet: Not required, but reduces injury risk by 70%
Shoulder check: Essential before every lane change and turn

Legal Foundations: What Does the Law Say?

According to § 63a StVZO, the bicycle is a vehicle. This means: You must follow all traffic rules that also apply to cars (with few exceptions).

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Practical Meaning

§ 2 StVO

Road use by vehicles

Bike paths only mandatory with blue sign

§ 8 StVO

Right of way

"Right before left" applies to cyclists too

§ 9 StVO

Turning, U-turns, reversing

Hand signals required when turning

§ 24 StVO

Alcohol while driving

1.6 per mille = criminal offense, 0.3 per mille = dangerous

§ 63a StVZO

Lighting equipment

Lights + reflectors required (or €20 fine)

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Warning: Alcohol on the Handlebars

Myth: "One beer is fine."
Reality: From 0.3 per mille with abnormal behavior (e.g. swerving) you risk fines + 3 points.

From 1.6 per mille: Criminal offense, license revoked (car too!), fine up to €3000, psychological evaluation required.

Our recommendation: If you drink, walk your bike or use public transport/taxi.

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Pro Tip: The "Blind Spot Check"

The problem: Trucks have a massive blind spot – to the right and in front of the truck. If you're there, the driver CANNOT see you.

The solution:
1. Never pass waiting trucks on the right (not even at red lights!)
2. Make eye contact with the driver – if you see him in the mirror, he sees you
3. Wait behind the truck – better 30 seconds of patience than death

Statistics: 40% of fatal bicycle accidents with trucks happen when the truck turns right → cyclist in blind spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to wear a helmet?

In Germany there is no helmet requirement for cyclists (except for S-Pedelecs over 45 km/h). But: Studies show that helmets reduce the risk of severe head injuries by 70%. Our clear recommendation: Always wear a helmet!

Can I ride on the sidewalk?

No, unless you are under 10 years old. Adults may only ride on sidewalks if there is an additional sign "Cyclists allowed" – and then only at walking speed and with consideration for pedestrians. Fine: €15 (€20 for obstruction, €25 for endangerment)

How much alcohol am I allowed to have?

0.0-0.3 per mille: Legal, but fine possible with abnormal behavior
0.3-1.6 per mille: Criminal offense with abnormal behavior (3 points, fine)
From 1.6 per mille: Criminal offense (fine up to €3000, psychological evaluation, license revocation)

Our recommendation: 0.0 per mille – or walk your bike!

Safety Starts with Knowledge – Share This Guide!

You now know how to stay safe in traffic. Check your bike today for traffic safety (lights, brakes, reflectors) and apply what you've learned on your next ride.