Let’s Use the Roads in Spring—But Safely!

Pedestrians should also be expected, and where there are no pavements, they will use the roadway. Together with the uniformed services, we appeal for caution during weekend walks.

Each group of road users has its own characteristics, which is why coexistence on the road requires common sense, mutual respect and compliance with traffic regulations.

A pedestrian should use the pavement or pedestrian path, and if neither is available, the shoulder. If there is no shoulder or it cannot temporarily be used, pedestrians may use the roadway, provided they stay as close to its edge as possible and give way to approaching vehicles. (Giving way means leaving the roadway and, if necessary, stopping).

Pedestrians may also walk on a cycle path, but only if there are no pavements or they cannot be used. In that case, a pedestrian—with the exception of a person with a disability—is required to give way to bicycles.

Cyclists, like pedestrians, are vulnerable road users, exposed to the risk of death or injury even at low collision speeds. When getting on a bicycle, we should remember this and always follow basic safety rules.

One of these is visibility on the road. A reflective vest and working bicycle lights will certainly ensure that drivers see a cyclist in good time. Wearing a helmet, meanwhile, is the most effective way to reduce head injuries resulting from both bicycle and motorcycle accidents.

Let’s also ensure that the bicycle is in proper technical condition—its brakes, lights and bell.

When organising family cycling trips, it is worth knowing that a child up to 7 years old may be carried on a bicycle, provided that they are placed on an additional seat ensuring safe travel.

Motorcyclists are also vulnerable road users. We remind motorcycle users that, like other drivers, they too are subject to speed limits. When riding this type of two-wheeler, like cyclists, we must bear visibility in mind. Reflective motorcycle braces or a vest improve motorcyclists’ visibility even during the day, and especially after dark.

The youngest have also been waiting for better weather. They will certainly be keen to spend time outdoors with their peers this weekend, ride bicycles and play football. We remind parents that a child up to 7 years old may use the road only under the supervision of a person who is at least 10 years old. This does not apply in a residential zone or on a road intended exclusively for pedestrians (a pavement or pedestrian path).

If a child intends to ride a bicycle, let’s always check which route they will choose and whether it poses a danger to them.

A child who is 10 years old may already ride a bicycle independently on public roads, provided they have a bicycle licence. Below that age, a young cyclist should travel according to pedestrian rules under the supervision of an adult. In that case, they may ride a bicycle with their guardian on the pavement, while on the roadway they should travel on the left-hand side.

While enjoying the fine weather and free time, let’s use the road in a way that complies with the law and does not endanger other road users. Regardless of our weekend plans, let’s keep our own safety and that of our loved ones in mind.