Traffic rules and regulations for cyclists

Cyclists are subject to the road traffic act (Straßenverkehrsordnung - StVO) as any other road users. Still, there are some additional rules which apply to cyclists in particular.

Right-of-way

Cyclist have right of way on all lanes reserved for them, such as cycle paths, combined pedestrian and cycle paths, cycle lanes, multi-purpose lanes, and street crossings for cyclists. They must yield their right of way once they leave lanes reserved for them.

Zebra crossings

• Pedestrians have right of way on zebra crossings.
• Cyclists must not endanger pedestrians when using a zebra crossing.

Street crossings for cyclists

• When approaching a bike crossing that is not signal-controlled or regulated by a traffic police officer, cyclists must not go faster than ten kilometers per hour, and must not cross the street directly in front of an approaching vehicle in a way that would be surprising to the vehicle’s driver.
• Trams and emergency vehicles on duty approaching a street crossing for cyclists have right of way.

Travelling one-way streets

Cyclists may travel one-way streets in both directions if this is indicated by an additional traffic sign, and if the one-way street is a residential street (Wohnstraße) in a residential area.

Mandatory bicycle equipment

All bicycles need specific equipment according to the Austrian bicycle regulation (Fahrradverordnung) (German)

Children

Children under 12 years of age must wear a helmet when riding a bike. Children carried in a seat on the back of a bicycle must wear a helmet as well.

If you want to carry a child in a child seat on the back of your bicycle, you must be more than 16 years old. Children under 8 years of age need a child seat suited to their size. The child seat must be fastened behind the cyclist’s seat and may only be used if spokes are properly covered. Only one child may be carried at a time.

Children under 12 years of age must be accompanied by a person in charge (minimum 16 years of age) when riding a bike in road traffic. Children between 10 and 12 years may only cycle on streets alone if they have passed a cycle test and carry a bicycle licence (German) with them to prove it.