Am I allowed to ride my bike on the highway?
June 4, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Hildegard Falk
Dear traffic lawyer,
my name is Felix Büchner and I have a question regarding cycling on the highway. I am a passionate cyclist and often use my bike for longer distances. However, recently a friend pointed out to me that it is forbidden to cycle on the highway. Now I am worried because I have been on the highway a few times in the past to reach my destination faster.
I would like to know if it is indeed prohibited to cycle on the highway and what consequences I could face if I get caught. Is it possible that I will receive a fine or even points on my driver's license? I am unsure if my behavior is illegal and do not want to commit any further violations.
If cycling on the highway is indeed prohibited, I would like to know if there are alternative routes that I can use as a cyclist to safely reach my destination. Are there, for example, bike paths or traffic-calmed streets that I should use instead?
I would be very grateful for your support and clarification on this matter in order to avoid future violations and safely navigate in traffic.
Best regards,
Felix Büchner
Dear Felix Büchner,
Thank you for your question regarding cycling on the highway. In fact, in Germany it is prohibited to ride a bicycle on highways according to § 18 para. 4 of the Road Traffic Regulations (StVO). This prohibition is primarily for your own safety, as highways have high speeds and cyclists, due to their slower pace, are at a high risk of getting into dangerous situations.
If you are caught cycling on the highway by the police, you may face a fine and possibly also points on your license in Flensburg. The exact amount of the fine can vary depending on the state and circumstances of the violation, but it can be quite significant. Therefore, it is definitely advisable to obey the prohibition and choose alternative routes.
Fortunately, there are many alternative routes that you can use as a cyclist to safely reach your destination. Most cities and towns have well-developed bike paths, bike lanes along main roads, or traffic-calmed streets that are specifically designed for cyclists. These paths not only provide more safety, but also more comfort and a pleasant ride.
It is therefore highly recommended to check in advance for the available bike paths in your region and use them during your rides. If you are unsure about which route is the safest and fastest for you, you can also inquire with local authorities or cycling associations.
I hope that my answer helps you avoid future violations and enables you to navigate safely on the roads. If you have any further questions or need legal advice, I am happy to assist.
Best regards,
Hildegard Falk, Traffic Law Attorney
